Kuala lumpur: The unauthorised use of the Royal Malaysia Police's (PDRM) official identity, or its misuse in a manner that creates the impression that the force endorses a product or service, may be investigated and subjected to legal action, said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the police view seriously any use of the force's name, logo, official identity, or images of police officers by any individual, company, or organisation for promotional, marketing, advertising, or commercial purposes without prior authorisation. Mohd Khalid highlighted that the force's official identity is an institutional asset that must be safeguarded and should not be exploited for commercial gain or in a manner that creates a misleading impression.
"PDRM wishes to emphasise that the presence of any police officer at a programme should not be construed as an endorsement, support, or recognition of any product, service, investment, or commercial activity. The public is advised not to assume that any product or service has received PDRM's official approval or endorsement solely because PDRM personnel are involved in a programme," Mohd Khalid said in a statement.
He further stated that such cases could be investigated and appropriate action taken under the relevant legal provisions, including Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588), subject to the facts of the case and the elements of the offence being established.
Mohd Khalid reiterated that "PDRM remains committed to safeguarding the integrity, credibility, and official identity of the force, while ensuring that all forms of cooperation with external parties are conducted transparently, professionally, and in accordance with the law, in order to maintain public confidence in the force."