Cheer up, good cops! How my view of police work evolved

MANY police officers have a fond appreciation for the "Dirty Harry" series.

The idea of being a cop like Inspector Harry Callahan, portrayed by Clint Eastwood, who can navigate through chaos, engaging in high-octane chases and confrontations without the bureaucratic hassle of reports, is admittedly appealing in a cinematic sense.

Though, in reality, law enforcement professionals do not aspire to violence or recklessness, the concept of a police force that operates without paperwork is amusingly attractive.

Thus, to many in the service, the "Dirty Harry" movies serve as a form of entertaining escapism.

In Malaysia, we've had our own versions of cop dramas, such as "Gerak Khas", that depict the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) combating crimes ranging from murder to terrorism.

Growing up, these series painted a picture for me of policing that was filled with action and heroism, much like the stories of Inspector Callahan. I imagined my father, a police officer, in similar scenarios, always emerging victorious and returning home safely.

My respect for law enforcement deepened following the Al-Ma'unah incident, a moment when the nation's security apparatus, including my father, confronted a tangible threat.

The resilience and bravery shown by the security forces during this time brought home the reality and importance of their role in maintaining public safety.

This respect carried through to my own aspirations, leading me to join the school's police cadet unit, driven by a desire to emulate the discipline and dedication I saw in my father and his colleagues.

My time as a cadet, where I learned about handling weapons and tactical training, further deepened my appreciation for the complexity and challenges of police work.

However, transitioning into the wider community, I noticed a stark contrast in the perception of the police force.

The respect and understanding I had for law enforcement weren't universally shared, with social media and public discourse often reflecting a disdain or lack of appreciation for the police.

This disconnect highlights a broader societal issue of understanding and respecting the role and challenges faced by law enforcement.

Despite these challenges, it's essential to recognise the commitment of many officers who continue to serve with honour and integrity, safeguarding national security and public order.

Celebrations like Police Day are crucial for acknowledging the sacrifices and dedication of these individuals.

It's time for a renewed respect for the police force, especially after the recent initiatives by the Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, to address internal issues and restore public confidence.

As citizens, acknowledging the efforts of police officers, whether in day-to-day interactions or in recognising their broader role in society, is a step towards rebuilding respect and appreciation for their service.

As the PDRM embraces reform and continues its mission, it's important for us to support and acknowledge the essential role of the police in maintaining peace and security.

A gesture as simple as a thumbs-up to an officer managing traffic can be a meaningful acknowledgment of their daily contributions to our safety and well-being.

Let's look forward to a future where the police force is revered not just for its authority but also for its dedication to justice and community service. Here's to celebrating the 217th Police Day of the PDRM, a testament to the enduring spirit and commitment of our law enforcement officers.