Is the lack of Sarawakian police chiefs an insult to the state?

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The Lack of Sarawakian Police Chiefs is Considered an Insult to the State

The absence of Sarawakians appointed to the position of state police commissioner has been labelled an insult to the people of Sarawak and its police officers. This sentiment was voiced by Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK) president Voon Lee Shan, who highlighted the historical underrepresentation of Sarawakians in this top leadership role. The recent appointment of Datuk Mohd Azman Ahmad Sapri, from peninsular Malaysia, as the new Sarawak Police Commissioner, succeeding Datuk Aidi Ismail, further fuelled this concern.
Limited Sarawakian Representation in Top Police Roles

Historically, only two individuals from Sarawak, Tan Sri Hamdan Sirat and Datuk Awang Ehsan Joini, have held the position of Sarawak Police Commissioner. Furthermore, since the formation of Malaysia in 1963, no Sarawakian police officer has ever been appointed as the inspector-general of police. While some senior Sarawakian officers have served in acting capacities for the state police commissioner role, these appointments were temporary and not considered substantive, according to Voon Lee Shan, who himself has a background as a former police officer.
Recent Appointments Reinforce Concerns

The recent promotional exercise saw another officer from peninsular Malaysia, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Wong Ing Fung, appointed to head the Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department in Sarawak. These appointments, which continue the trend of non-Sarawakians filling key leadership positions within the state police force, underscore the long-standing issue of limited opportunities for local talent in these senior roles.
Proposal to Restore Sarawak Constabulary

In response to this perceived exclusion, Voon Lee Shan proposed the restoration of the Sarawak Constabulary. The aim of this proposal is to ensure that Sarawakians are given priority and opportunities to serve within their own state's police force. Such a measure, he suggested, would address the current underrepresentation and provide a dedicated pathway for local officers to ascend to leadership positions within Sarawak.

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Is the lack of Sarawakian police chiefs an insult to the state?

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