A criminologist has warned that entrenched perceptions of cultural imbalance within the police force are hindering efforts to increase non-Malay recruitment. P Sundramoorthy of Universiti Sains Malaysia said that for the police to truly reflect Malaysia’s multicultural society, recruitment must be “colour-blind, merit-based, and firmly anchored in preserving capability.”
Sundramoorthy highlighted that the lack of visible role models from diverse backgrounds has reinforced these perceptions, discouraging many non-Malays from joining the force.
A retired senior officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, shared his personal frustration over the promotion system. He said he left the force early after repeatedly seeing junior colleagues promoted ahead of him despite more than two decades of loyal service. “It was increasingly frustrating to see officers 10 years my junior promoted,” said the ex-officer, a non-Bumiputera. “Those in authority will do their best to frustrate you on promotions, courses, and postings both locally and overseas. It’s a one-sided system that favours the majority.”
Deputy Home Minister Shamsul Anuar Nasarah told the Dewan Rakyat on Nov 20 that non-Bumiputeras currently make up only 5.5% of the police force, amounting to 7,581 officers. The ministry has eased some physical and academic requirements and increased outreach in schools, universities, and communities to attract more non-Bumiputera applicants.
However, Sundramoorthy cautioned against lowering standards. He said recruitment should focus on holistic assessments rather than reducing core academic, physical, and ethical thresholds, which are essential to ensure officers are competent and resilient.
He recommended incorporating psychometric evaluations, structured interviews, and situational judgment tests to identify candidates with strong judgment, emotional intelligence, and community awareness.
Sundramoorthy also pointed out that private-sector opportunities offering higher pay, faster career advancement, and better work-life balance often attract academically strong youths, further limiting police recruitment. “Without strong outreach and clear career pathways, recruitment efforts will continue to fall short,” he said, emphasizing that meaningful reform is needed to build a diverse, capable police force.
