Ismail Omar took office today as the new Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and pledged to give his best in the service of the people and nation within the ambit of the law and the powers vested in him.  

Ismail, who had been the Deputy IGP, said the heavy responsibility he shouldered as the IGP needed the strong cooperation and support of the police officers and personnel in realising the objectives of the police force.

"No IGP can discharge his duties without the assistance and support of his officers and personnel. I will give my best, just like the eight IGPs before me," he said at the ceremony to hand over duties to the new Deputy IGP Hussin Ismail, hitherto the Director of Internal Security and Public Order, at the Bukit Aman Officers' Mess, here.

Ismail, 57, said much of his first day in office would be devoted to meetings with all police directors, deputy directors and state chief police officers.

Hussin, also 57, in his speech at the ceremony, said he would give his full support to Ismail in the implementation of plans, policies and strategies.

"I will also discharge my duties with full commitment for the good of the police force," he said.

Ismail succeeds Tan Sri Musa Hassan whose contract of service as the IGP ended yesterday. Musa had served the police force for 41 years.

Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein announced the appointments of Ismail and Hussin on Sept 1.

- Bernama