Home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said more than a million of such individuals were struggling to secure jobs or start their own businesses due to them being listed under Act 7.

He said the ministry proposed to clear the records of certain individuals, which would make it easier for them to obtain employment or apply for business licences.

However, he maintained that this would not apply across the board but would only be granted on a case-by-case basis. It will include those listed under Act 7 after being detained for investigations though not charged in court, as well as those arrested under preventive laws.

In response to recent police shootings of criminals in broad daylight, Saifuddin said the police always considered public safety before engaging in any exchange of gunfire.

He said the shootout with a suspected robber in Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya, two days ago, for instance, reflected the force’s efficiency and professionalism, with no members of the public harmed in the incident.

“In operations like these, the safety of policemen is paramount, but public safety is given equal consideration, ensuring that every action is meticulously planned and executed,” he said.