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ALLIANCE for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye has called for the Royal Malaysia Police to take immediate and more robust action to safeguard the occupational health and safety of its officers, particularly during operations on busy roads and in high-risk public areas.
Speaking in a statement on Monday, Lam Thye highlighted a series of recent tragic incidents in which police personnel were injured or killed while performing duties such as roadblock enforcement, traffic operations, crime prevention patrols, and special task operations.
“These incidents cannot be dismissed merely as occupational hazards or deemed unavoidable. Police officers are frontliners who put their own safety at risk to protect the community,” he said.
He emphasised that the safety and welfare of law enforcement personnel should be a national priority, and that officers should not be exposed to unnecessary dangers due to lapses in safety planning, inadequate protective equipment, or outdated standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Lam Thye urged a thorough review of all enforcement SOPs to be conducted without delay.
“The review should involve occupational safety and health experts, road safety specialists, and risk management professionals to ensure a more systematic and effective approach,” he said.
Key areas for immediate attention include the selection and design of roadblock locations to maximise visibility, the installation of advance warning signage, and the creation of buffer safety zones.
He also stressed the importance of personal protective equipment, including reflective clothing, safety barriers, and other appropriate gear.
“Safer traffic management can be implemented in collaboration with highway authorities, local councils, and facility operators. Officer fatigue must also be addressed by ensuring adequate shift schedules and rest periods to prevent errors caused by exhaustion,” he added.
Lam Thye further recommended the development of emergency response procedures to enhance reaction efficiency in the event of accidents during operations, alongside regular safety audits to independently assess operational safety standards.
“A work culture that prioritises safety must be instilled as a non-negotiable principle. Protecting those who protect us is a shared responsibility,” he said.
“Proactive measures to strengthen occupational health and safety within the police force not only reduce the risk of accidents but also bolster public confidence in law enforcement operations. We cannot wait for more injuries or fatalities before decisive action is taken.
“Prevention today guarantees safety tomorrow.” - March 1, 2026
