The organiser of the debate between former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Umno minister Nazri Abdul Aziz has yet to notify police about the discourse, said inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar.

"Of course, (they have to send the notice to police)," he told a press conference after attending the 210th Police Day event at Pulapol, Kuala Lumpur.

He was asked if the police would allow the debate, which was postponed to April 7, and if the debate posted a security concern.

The police would only comment on the debate after it has received the notification, he said.

"We will wait for the notice, we want to know what is the subject matter, who are the people involved, then we will be able to comment," he elaborated.

Khalid also brushed off Nazri's view that Malaysia is a police state.

"What police state? Do you feel your freedom being curbed? Do you feel everywhere you go, you need police to give you orders? Do you feel that when you move around in the city you need police to be around you all the time?

"Those are political comments," he added.

Nazri had slammed the police for obstructing the debate which was originally supposed to be held on March 25.

"Since when did Malaysia become a police state? Since when could anyone be denied their right when they have done nothing wrong? I am saddened and disturbed," said Nazri four days ago.

On March 10, Khalid had said the police would not interfere in the debate as this had nothing to do with the police.

But on the ground, the Perak police barred the debate, citing a breach of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 (PAA), as the organiser failed to submit notification within 10 days and (were) using a school, which was prohibited under the Act as a debate venue.