Several members of the 16-member Royal Commission on the Police Force contacted by malaysiakini have described their appointment, announced this evening, as an honour.

In an immediate response, some of the appointees also outlined how they hope to contribute to the commission's scope of work, although they have yet to be informed of the six terms of reference approved by the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong.

The commission will have to complete a preliminary report into its investigations within six months, followed by a full report within the next six months.

Last December, Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi had announced that a royal commission would be established to look into ways to modernise the police force and restore its credibility that has been tainted by corruption and alleged use of excessive force.

Abdullah, who is also home minister, said cases of corruption involving police officials have undermined the public's confidence, and issues such as police brutality and poor service have further clouded their image.

Following his announcement, several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and prominent individuals had cited the need for the commission to comprise people of integrity, and to be transparent and accountable in its work. They also said the efficacy of recommendations was crucial.

What some commissioners say

Yayasan Strategik Sosial executive director Dr Denison Jayasooria

"The commission has a major task ahead. We have to enhance the quality of the police force, to improve its professionalism, including determining the stress levels of policing. I think we would be taking a more holistic and comprehensive approach, given the criticism of the police in recent years.

"The commission will now have an opportunity to get some good feedback from a wider cross-section of the Malaysian public. This is the time for non-governmental organisations and special interest groups to use the platform to provide their views and comments.

"As a sociologist, I work a lot with the urban poor and those living in high-risk neighbourhoods.

Stigmatisation of crime by race and gender would be equally important to consider. I hope to play my role as honestly as possible and with intellectual credibility.

"I haven't been officially informed about the commission's terms of reference, but I think the general framework would be to restore public confidence in the police force, provide a performance indicator, enhance quality and determine the terms and conditions of policing.

"It is a serious review of the force and we have to get it done within 12 months. It's going to be tough, heavy work in terms of commitment."

Bar Council chairperson Kuthubul Zaman Bukhari

"My appointment is a recognition of the council's contributions. The council had been previously left out from such public-interest programmes, but this (the appointment) means the government appreciates our efforts to create a better society.

"I hope to contribute positively to building a better police force."

Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation vice-chairperson Lee Lam Thye

"I think my interest in the issues pertaining to police and my experience with the Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation was among reasons that I have been appointed to the commission."

"It's a challenging task but I am prepared to serve. I am confident that the commission can play an important role in further improving the image of the police force, so that it is seen as a more credible and professional body.

"I hope the police force will be able to earn the respect of all sections of society. The commission will be able to identify solutions for some of the weaknesses of the police force."

Berita Publishing editor-in-chief A Kadir Jasin

"I am honoured to be a member of the commission. I will do my best and cooperate fully with the chairperson in order to come up with the best recommendations for the police force, the people and the country."

Story by Claudia Theophilus, Beh Lih Yi and Arfa'eza Aziz