In a statement, Hassan said home minister Hamzah Zainudin has no power to “postpone, let alone thwart” the decision made by the IGP, as control and command of the police force is under Hamid’s jurisdiction.

“I take what the home affairs minister is trying to do seriously.

“Even though the country is now in a state of emergency and Parliament is suspended, this does not mean that the home minister has powers that go beyond the provisions of the law to interfere with the jurisdiction of the IGP.”

Speaking at a press conference in Klang earlier today, the IGP confirmed an order had been issued by Hamzah to postpone the transfers of senior members of the force, stating that he will meet with the home minister to explain why the changes must be made.

Hamid said that as the IGP, he has the power to regulate the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and that his directive was made “for the benefit of all”.

Hassan called on Hamzah to withdraw his order to the IGP to postpone the police transfers.

“The IGP must be given space and support by all parties to eradicate crime in the country and make PDRM an agency that maintains public safety and order to function professionally, efficiently and with trust.”

He said the integrity of the force is of particular importance given Hamid’s recent comments regarding a “cartel” of crooked cops within the police force, and reports that Malaysia has received attention from an international drug cartel as a potential transit hub.