It is high time those in authority take a step back for a better view of the role of the police in our society of today as its relationship with the public has degenerated.

Of late, in matters relating to any opposition activities, the police seem to play the role of government watchdog and this is putting it mildly. Their actions are seen to placate the will of the government of the day and to curb, if not suppress, those in opposition or any activities carried out by non-governmental organisations.

Their highhandedness only adds to the already antagonised relationship between the public and police. Perhaps, the Home Ministry really needs to do some soul-searching on how to handle such a perception and what needs to be done to put the force back on course.

The role of the police as guardians of peace within our multiracial society needs to be upheld constantly without fear or favour from the government. This is a tough balancing act for those in service but ultimately the voice of the public, no matter how small, needs to be heard.

There is a wind of change within our society and like it or not, the police need to move in tandem with these changes. Malaysians are a resilient lot as seen from the recovery of the nation as a whole from the economic ills of the world.

As we become a more progressive country, our society needs a more mature and intelligent force that can better serve the very people that rely on the police to carry out their duty without fear or favour. The long and short of it weighs heavily on the Home Ministry.

Perhaps this is one occasion for Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to show his mettle and lead the nation towards a more just and equitable society. For too long now, the ways of old have bled our nation of its resources to serve the selfish needs of a selected few. It is time to review the role of the police and any changes, if required, would definitely be a positive step in building a better nation.