SHAH ALAM - The contract of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, 62, is expected to end this June, sparking speculation over who will be appointed as his successor.
Razarudin has held the top police post on a two-year contract since 2023.
Among the potential candidates seen as possible successors to Razarudin if his contract is not extended were Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIGP) Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay, 59; Department of Internal Security and Public Order director Datuk Seri Azmi Abu Kassim, 60; and Special Branch deputy director Datuk Mohd Khalid Ismail.
However, the final decision rests with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim, based on the advice of the Prime Minister.
Independent criminologist Shahul Hamid Abd Rahim said the selection of the next IGP was a matter of great importance for the country and society.
He said the top post in the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) should be given to someone capable of continuing the force’s excellence in combating all forms of crime.
He stressed that apart from being able to carry on the excellence of the police force in addressing various national issues, the individual must also possess a high level of integrity.
"As an IGP, the person appointed should ideally be someone with high integrity, extensive experience, firm in carrying out duties and with a clean image," he told Sinar.
Shahul added that it was customary for the DIGP to be appointed as the next IGP, given their experience and role in assuming responsibilities when the IGP is on leave or on official duty abroad.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Community Care Foundation chairman Datuk Seri Halim Ishak said he believed that traditionally, the IGP position is filled by the DIGP.
"However, we cannot rule out the possibility of another figure being appointed to fill the vacancy, as seen in the recent selection of the Armed Forces Chief.
"Whatever the decision may be, the individual chosen must be free from political influence, remain loyal to their oath of allegiance and be committed to upholding the dignity and integrity of PDRM on the global stage," he said.
Defence analyst Zaki Salleh also said it was a common practice for the deputy to be elevated to the role of IGP.
He said the position of DIGP was intended to serve as a role to prepare those aiming to become the head of the force, given their involvement in high-level administrative matters within the police.
Razarudin’s appointment on a contract basis, following his retirement at the age of 60, is set to run for two years and will end on June 22, 2025.