SUPP Sec-Gen, Datuk Sebastian Ting says it is not a good idea to close police stations at 10pm

suppadmin | July 10, 2024

The decision to close gates at police stations nationwide after 10pm is not a “good idea”. We sincerely hope it is not a knee-jerk reaction just after one isolated incident in Ulu Tiram, said SUPP Sec general, Datuk Sebastian Ting.

Ting said SUPP wished to stress that ordinary citizens expect the police to be ready at all times to enforce and maintain law and order, without fear or favour and for the best interest of the people.

“Closing the gates after 10 pm is a “put-off” and not the way to be seen as providing the best service to the citizenry and welcoming them to seek help from the police. The police and the public are supposed to be “friends” working together for the common societal good. Do not put a visible barrier to this laudable relationship that has helped in maintaining law and order within the community all these years, ” he said.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail on July 9 that all police stations nationwide have been told to close their gates from 10pm as part of security measures during a question and answer in Parliament.

Ting added that they are also concerned for the safety of the policemen at work and this involves providing them with proper training, equipment and support systems. Comprehensive training programs in conflict resolution, de-escalation techniques and situational awareness can help officers handle difficult situations more safely.

“We agree with the Home Minister that balancing the safety of police officers with the need for accountability and community trust is essential for a well-functioning law enforcement system.
SUPP does not think it is a well-thought move to close the gates of police stations nationwide.
It makes more sense for the police to do so in high risk areas where such security measures are deemed necessary or vital. Not all police stations throughout the country will be threatened by isolated radicalised groups as in the Ulu Tiram case, ” he added.

He doubt police stations in Kuching, Sibu or Miri will be attacked by so-called radicalised people. So, closing the gates of these stations makes little sense.

Nonetheless, he is glad to note that the Home Ministry has clarified today (July 10) that police reports can still be made, despite the police station gates being closed after 10 pm as a security control measure.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain has also said police stations will carry on providing services as usual despite the closure of their gates after 10 pm.