Police Ranks in Malaysia: Full List & Role of Each Rank

Have you ever thought about the police ranks in Malaysia and how officers get promoted in their careers?

Actually, each rank comes with its own responsibilities, and the path to promotion is quite structured. For those of you aiming to join the police force or are simply curious about how it works, this article will guide you through everything you need to know.

Let’s take a look at the full list of police ranks in Malaysia and what each rank actually means.

The Structure of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM)

The Royal Malaysia Police, or Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM), is the main body responsible for maintaining peace and public order in the country. PDRM is divided into two main categories of rank:

• Lower ranks (Other Ranks)
• Senior officers (Gazetted Officers)

Each rank has its own level of responsibility and authority. Promotion usually depends on years of service, performance, and internal examinations.

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Full List of Police Ranks in Malaysia

In Malaysia, the police ranks are organized under the Royal Malaysia Police (Polis Diraja Malaysia - PDRM). Here's a breakdown of the lowest to highest ranks for both the rank and file (lower ranks) and gazetted officers (higher ranks):

What is the lowest rank in police?

• Constable (Konstabel): This is the entry level rank in the police force. Typically assigned to general duties, patrolling, and assisting senior officers.

What is the highest rank in police?

• Inspector General of Police (IGP) / Ketua Polis Negara. This is the highest rank in police. The IGP is the top commander of the entire police force in Malaysia. Appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King) on the advice of the Prime Minister.

Full List of Police Ranks in Malaysia (Low to High)

1. Lower Ranks (Other Ranks / Pegawai Rendah Polis)

1. Konstabel (Constable)
2. Konstabel Tambahan (Probationary Constable)
3. Lans Koperal (Lance Corporal)
4. Koperal (Corporal)
5. Sarjan (Sergeant)
6. Sarjan Mejar (Sergeant Major)
7. Sub-Inspektor (Sub Inspector)

2. Gazetted Officers (Pegawai Kanan Polis)

1. Inspektor (Inspector)
2. Asisten Superintenden Polis (ASP) (Assistant Superintendent of Police)
3. Deputi Superintenden Polis (DSP) (Deputy Superintendent of Police)
4. Superintenden Polis (Superintendent of Police)
5. Asisten Komisioner Polis (ACP) (Assistant Commissioner of Police)
6. Senior Asisten Komisioner (SAC) (Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police)
7. Deputi Komisioner Polis (DCP) (Deputy Commissioner of Police)
8. Komisioner Polis (CP) (Commissioner of Police)
9. Timbalan Ketua Polis Negara (Deputy Inspector-General of Police – DIGP)
10. Ketua Polis Negara (Inspector General of Police – IGP)

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Police Duties by Rank in Malaysia

In Malaysia, police duties vary depending on rank. Each level carries its own set of responsibilities, from frontline work to strategic planning. Here's a quick overview of what officers typically do based on their rank:

1. Constable & Lance Corporal
   These are the frontline officers you often see. They help maintain public safety, direct traffic, and carry out regular patrols.
2. Corporal & Sergeant
   At this level, officers usually lead small teams during daily operations. They also supervise junior officers and assist with investigations.
3. Sub Inspector & Inspector
   These officers oversee field operations, lead investigations, and ensure procedures are properly followed.
4. ASP (Assistant Superintendent) to DSP (Deputy Superintendent)
   Their role involves managing operations, overseeing more complex investigations, and making key operational decisions.
5. Superintendent (SP) and Above
   These are the senior officers in charge of specific areas or departments. They’re responsible for strategic planning, high-level decision-making, and shaping national security policies.

Each rank plays a crucial role in keeping our communities safe and ensuring the police force runs efficiently.

Police Salary in Malaysia

Police salaries in Malaysia vary based on rank and years of service. Generally, the higher the rank, the higher the salary. Here's an estimated monthly salary range for various police ranks in Malaysia:

• Constable: RM1,200 – RM2,500
• Corporal: RM1,800 – RM3,500
• Sergeant: RM2,000 – RM4,000
• Inspector: RM2,500 – RM5,000
• ASP (Assistant Superintendent): RM3,000 – RM6,000
• DSP (Deputy Superintendent): RM4,000 – RM7,000
• Superintendent and above: RM5,000 – RM10,000

In addition to basic salary, police officers are also entitled to various allowances such as housing allowance, risk allowance, and more. Other benefits include pension plans and health insurance coverage.

Police ranks in Malaysia not only represent hierarchy within the force but also reflect the responsibilities and roles each officer plays in maintaining the country's safety and public order. By understanding the ranks, duties, and salary structure, we can better appreciate the critical role our security forces play in protecting the nation.

Requirements to Join the Police Force in Malaysia

Thinking of joining the police? Here are the basic requirements depending on the rank you're applying for:

For Lower Ranks (e.g. Constable, Corporal)

• Minimum SPM qualification
• Good health and physical fitness
• Must pass written tests, interviews, and physical evaluations
• Will undergo training at Police Training Centre (PULAPOL)

For Officer Ranks (e.g. Inspector)

• Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
• Must pass assessments and undergo cadet training
• Successful candidates will be appointed as Probationary Inspector

Final Thoughts

Understanding the police ranking system in Malaysia isn’t just for those interested in joining PDRM but it’s also helpful for the general public to know who’s who when interacting with the police.

For anyone aiming to build a career in law enforcement, knowing the rank hierarchy can help you set goals and prepare better for advancement. Whether you start as a constable or jump in as a cadet officer, every rank plays an important role in maintaining safety and security in Malaysia.

If you're ready to take the next step, keep an eye on PDRM recruitment updates and start preparing today. The journey may be tough, but it’s definitely a rewarding one!

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FAQs About Police Ranks in Malaysia

1. What is the lowest police rank in Malaysia?

The lowest rank is Constable (Konstabel), which is the entry-level position in PDRM.

2. How many years does it take to get promoted in the police?

It varies. Promotion depends on service duration, performance, availability of positions, and exams. Some officers may get promoted faster than others.

3. Can women apply to join the police force in Malaysia?

Yes, absolutely! Women are encouraged to join and are present in many departments including traffic, investigation, and administration.

4. What does the crown symbol in police insignia mean?

The crown symbol typically represents officer level ranks and is used to indicate seniority and authority.

5. What’s the difference between a Constable and an Inspector?

A Constable is a lower-rank officer mainly involved in patrolling and ground duties, while an Inspector is a junior officer rank responsible for investigations and managing teams.