The Role of Women Police Officers in Malaysia

Authors

Nik Nor Azeah Nik Azman

Fakulti Pengajian Kontemporari Islam (FKI), University Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Gong Badak Campus, 21300 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu (Malaysia)

Normadiah Daud

Fakulti Pengajian Kontemporari Islam (FKI), University Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Gong Badak Campus, 21300 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu (Malaysia)

Nadhirah Nordin

Fakulti Pengajian Kontemporari Islam (FKI), University Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Gong Badak Campus, 21300 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu (Malaysia)

Maisyarah Rahmi Hasan

Sharia Faculty, Universitas Islam Negeri Sultan Aji Muhammad Idris Samarinda (Indonesia)

Article Information

DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS.2025.930000044

Subject Category: Social science

Volume/Issue: 9/30 | Page No: 334-338

Publication Timeline

Submitted: 2025-12-10

Accepted: 2025-12-16

Published: 2025-12-26

Abstract

The role of women police officers in Malaysia is often obscured by a dominant narrative that tends to prioritize masculine aspects in law enforcement, leading to their contributions being less visible. This phenomenon creates a significant gap between public perception and operational reality, where their challenges and effectiveness are often not encompassed in policy analyses. Previous studies frequently only touched upon demographic aspects or administrative duties, rarely delving deeply into their strategic potential or social impact, leaving a void in holistic understanding. Therefore, this conceptual analysis, based on a literature and document review, attempts to fill that gap. Findings indicate that the presence of women police officers is not merely about fulfilling quotas it is a necessity. They possess unique capabilities in handling sensitive cases such as abuse and sexual crimes, offering an unparalleled dimension of empathy. Furthermore, women police officers act as effective connecting bridges between communities and enforcement agencies, building public trust through a more inclusive approach. A more inclusive policing approach, acknowledging and leveraging gender advantages, can certainly enhance the overall legitimacy and effectiveness of the Royal Malaysia Police.

Keywords

Women Police Officers, PDRM

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