Malaysian police watchdog receives over 1,600 complaints since 2023

The Independent Police Conduct Commission (IPCC) in Malaysia has received a significant number of complaints against police personnel since its establishment in 2023. As of July 24, 2026, the commission had logged a total of 1,635 complaints. This figure includes 372 complaints registered within the current year.

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If the complaint has elements of corruption, IPCC will channel it to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (SPRM) because IPCC does not have expertise like SPRM in investigating corruption cases.

Minister of Home Affairs Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail reported that a substantial portion of these complaints have been addressed, with 844 cases, approximately 76 percent, already resolved. The IPCC has opened 22 investigation papers, 11 of which have been completed, while the remaining 11 are still pending action. The commission also highlighted that the most frequent category of complaints stems from dissatisfaction due to a lack of feedback on reports or complaints lodged with the police.

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The highest category of complaints received is dissatisfaction from complainants because they did not receive any feedback regarding reports or complaints submitted to the police.

Saifuddin emphasized that the IPCC operates within its clearly defined jurisdiction under the IPCC Act and does not usurp the functions of other enforcement agencies. For cases involving elements of corruption, the IPCC refers them to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (SPRM). Similarly, complaints with criminal elements are handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department. The minister also noted the recent arrest of 12 police officers suspected of extortion as evidence of the Royal Malaysia Police's commitment to addressing misconduct within its ranks.

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The fact that the police arrested, detained, and took action is a clear message that PDRM will not compromise at all, even against its own members.