Malaysia’s police earn international praise for counterterrorism efforts, says home minister

Malaysia’s police earn international praise for counterterrorism efforts, says home minister

KUALA LUMPUR, June 21 — The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has earned recognition not just regionally but also from global powers such as the United States for its capabilities in countering terrorism, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.‍

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KUALA LUMPUR, June 21 — The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has earned recognition not just regionally but also from global powers such as the United States for its capabilities in countering terrorism, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

He highlighted that this recognition was evident in the confidence shown by the US in entrusting PDRM with the rehabilitation of two Malaysians who were previously detained at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

“This case demonstrates the expertise and capabilities of PDRM’s Special Branch, which were strong enough to earn the trust of a global power like the United States.

“It proves that we are on equal footing in addressing terrorism threats, ensuring they do not compromise the safety of our nation,” Saifuddin said during the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) handover ceremony at the Police Training Centre (Pulapol) today.

Media reports earlier revealed that the United States repatriated two Malaysian nationals in December 2024 after they had spent 18 years at Guantanamo Bay.

The two individuals — Mohammed Farik Amin, 49, and Mohammed Nazir Lep, 48 — are currently undergoing a comprehensive rehabilitation programme, which includes social reintegration support, welfare assistance, and health screening, before reuniting with their families.

Saifuddin credited outgoing IGP Tan Sri Razarudin Husain for playing a pivotal role in the successful repatriation, commending his calm and effective engagement with various US agencies, including the CIA and FBI.

He also stressed that the role of IGP is not a reward, but a heavy responsibility that must be borne with integrity and full accountability.

“The IGP is not only answerable to the country but also to the entire police force under his leadership,” he said.

Earlier in the ceremony, Bukit Aman Special Branch director Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail was officially appointed as Malaysia’s 15th IGP, taking over from Razarudin, effective today.

The ceremony was witnessed by Saifuddin and attended by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil and senior PDRM officials. — Bernama

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail speaks during the handover ceremony between outgoing Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain and newly appointed IGP Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail at the Police Training Centre in Kuala Lumpur, June 20, 2025. — Bernama pic

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