Muallim: An attack on a policeman by a drunk, mentally ill, and armed suspect while on duty prompted the Muallim district police headquarters' (IPD) 'T-Malim' Innovation Team to develop an innovative Body Shield Protector (BSP) to safeguard personnel in the field.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Inspector Muhammad Azri Mohd Noah shared that witnessing his colleagues exposed to the risk of serious injury inspired the creation of the BSP, a special shield designed specifically for use in mobile patrol vehicles (MPVs). He noted that the MPV unit often arrives first at crime scenes, confronting potentially armed suspects. The T-Malim team's internal study since 2022 revealed that existing shields were inconvenient to deploy quickly, leading to the development of the BSP.

The Behrang Police Station head highlighted that viral incidents of MPV personnel confronting armed suspects had underscored the need for a more effective protective measure. The BSP offers up to 90 percent protection, boosting the confidence and credibility of the police force. Muhammad Azri emphasized that the BSP serves as an alternative rather than a replacement for existing riot shields.

Inspector Che Rosmasliza Che Abas of the Bukit Aman Traffic Enforcement Investigation Department explained that the BSP was initially trialed by MPV personnel in several districts of Perak, receiving positive feedback. This led to the creation of the upgraded BSP 2.0, which is lighter, more accessible, and equipped with red-blue strobe lights and a sturdy polycarbonate build. It has passed SIRIM safety tests, proving resistant to impacts, acids, and various weapons.

The Muallim IPD T-Malim team, representing the Royal Malaysia Police, participated in the Innovathon Season 3 reality programme, securing fifth place. The team, formed in 2016, has developed several innovative devices for police use, particularly benefiting the Muallim IPD.

Sergeant Mohd Rizal Amir, a member of the T-Malim team, mentioned that their designs have been featured at the PDRM Innovative and Creative Group event. He also discussed the development of a 'Portable Disaster Unit,' a lightweight whiteboard for SAR operations, which proved crucial in past rescue missions.

Mohd Rizal expressed hope that their innovation would gain wider recognition and use within the PDRM and other security agencies. He noted the financial challenges faced by the group in developing the shield, emphasizing the potential for commercial interest and broader application.