Inspector-general of police (IGP) Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani said police welcomed the decision and appreciated the home minister’s effort in re-tabling the motion.

“The ministry and MPs’ commitment in approving the motion to extend sub-section 4(5) of the Sosma Act and the Independent Police Conduct Commission (IPCC) Bill 2020 is a huge support to law enforcement in Malaysia.

“The development involving the extension of sub-section 4(5) of Sosma will provide an opportunity for the police to carry out their responsibilities more efficiently for the wellbeing of the people,” he said.

Acryl Sani also said that police welcomed the government’s efforts toward the establishment of the IPCC in order to restore public confidence in the force.

Yesterday, the Dewan Rakyat passed the motion to extend sub-section 4(5) of Sosma for another five years from July 31.

The motion, re-tabled by home minister Hamzah Zainudin, was passed after bloc voting in which 111 MPs voted in support and 88 MPs against. A total of 21 MPs were absent.

The lower house also passed the IPCC Bill 2020, which aims to improve integrity, reduce misconduct among police officers and boost public confidence in the police force.