Malaysia proposes book to honor legendary police crime-fighters

The Selangor chapter of the Retired Senior Police Officers Association of Malaysia (Respa) is proposing to document the crime-busting achievements of Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) veterans in a book. The initiative aims to create an inspirational record for both the police force and the public.

Datuk Zakaria Yusof, chairman of Respa Selangor, stated that the successes of these PDRM 'legends' often serve as role models for active-duty officers. He welcomed collaboration with any party interested in publishing such a book, with Respa Selangor ready to gather information on these veteran officers.

"The proceeds from the sale of this book can be channeled to the welfare fund for former police officers or the Warrior's Fund," Zakaria added. He was speaking after leading a Respa Selangor executive committee delegation to visit B.D. Henry, a former Selangor Criminal Investigation Department Chief, who is 94 years old.

Henry, who retired from PDRM in 1986, is currently residing at the St. Mark's Cozy Home welfare home in Sungai Buloh, Selangor. Zakaria described Henry as the greatest crime-buster of the 1970s, feared by criminals. He noted that Henry was an idol to many police officers, including himself, during that era due to his exceptional leadership, firmness, and outstanding record in combating organized crime. Also present at the visit were former Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar and former Kuala Lumpur Police Chief Datuk Dell Akbar Khan.