By Mazwin Nik Anis

PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA: There are some quarters out to discredit the police who were painting the picture that the country was facing security threats all the time, Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar claimed.

"Political parties and the media should not paint such a picture. Admittedly, there are cases that are hard to solve but this is not a reason why we should condemn our security forces, particularly the police.

"This attitude will not help the police solve cases and build public confidence," he told reporters after attending the ministry's monthly gathering on Tuesday.

Syed Hamid said the police too were unhappy over unsolved crimes and were committed to continue investigating such cases.

"I don't understand why there are parties going all out to discredit the police. These people are free to voice their opinion and criticise others because the country is safe, thanks to our security personnel.

"If they (police) make mistakes, point it out and we will rectify them. But they should also be given a pat on the back for doing a good job.

"Give them a bit of credit where credit is due.The police are doing all they can to upkeep the safety and security of the country," he said.

Syed Hamid said economic uncertainty had led to an increase in crime, particularly with petty and transborder crimes, but claimed that Malaysia's crime rate was still low compared with other countries.

He did not specify which countries.

"This does not mean we are resting on our laurels. We will want to tackle crime so that Malaysians will continue to live in a safe and secure country," he said.