Former inspector-general of police Ismail Omar was called to the Bar today.

The 65-year-old, who was also formerly Malaysia's ambassador to France, read law and graduated in 1992 from the International Islamic University.

He was called to the Bar before Justice Nordin Hassan of the High Court in Kuala Lumpur.

Met after the ceremony, Ismail said he intends to open his own practice to serve the people.

"I plan to provide service to ensure justice. I may also get involved in several non-governmental organisations to assist all races (bangsa sejagat)," he said.

"I plan to assist those who are weak and not able to protect their rights," he said.

Ismail was IGP from 2010 until his retirement in 2013. He then went on to serve as ambassador to France for two years. He is currently chairman of New Straits Times Press Bhd.

During the ceremony today, his mover, lawyer Mad Diah Endut, read out Ismail's biodata. Ismail was born to Hasnu Ariffin in Kedah, in May 1953, and is the fifth of 10 children.

Ismail's father, Omar Rahman, was also a police officer.

"As IGP, he (Ismail) was involved in quashing the Lahad Datu incursion," Mad Diah said.

Ismail will undergo training with his master, Khairul Anuar Rahmat of the law firm Khairul A & Co.

After Mad Diah finished reading the motion, Khairul Anuar placed the lawyer's robe on Ismail.

Justice Nordin then accepted Ismail as an advocate and solicitor.