CP Ab Rahaman brings a vision of professionalism, empathy, and accountability to Johor’s police force.
Newly appointed Johor Police Chief Commissioner Ab Rahaman Arsad has pledged to instill five core principles under the acronym “G.R.E.A.T” to guide more than 10,000 officers across the state, marking a new era of leadership and integrity in one of Malaysia’s most strategic regions.
A Vision Rooted in Principles
Speaking during his official handover ceremony on August 5, CP Ab Rahaman outlined the “G.R.E.A.T.” framework—Good Governance, Responsibility, Empathy, Accountability, and Tenacity of Purpose. The approach aims to reshape Johor’s police identity and operational culture.
“I will try to apply these principles within the Johor police contingent, in the hope that all our officers will become G.R.E.A.T. personnel,” said the 58-year-old leader, who officially became Johor’s 67th police chief, succeeding Datuk M. Kumar.
Leadership at a Critical Gateway
As a Johor native from Kulai, this is Ab Rahaman’s first time serving in his home state. He acknowledged Johor’s unique challenges, given its strategic position bordering Singapore and proximity to Indonesia, calling it a major national gateway with high economic, political, and social significance.
“Johor’s 10,400-strong police force is its greatest asset in tackling current challenges, including cross-border crime and drug trafficking,” he noted, adding that maintaining order in such a dynamic state demands discipline and unity from all ranks.
Three Core Missions for Reform
At his first press conference, Ab Rahaman introduced three core priorities for his tenure:
- Delivering professional and ethical policing services
- Improving service delivery and governance
- Enhancing the welfare of all Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) personnel in Johor
He emphasized that these align with the national police directive but will be locally strengthened through the “G.R.E.A.T.” principles.
An Experienced Hand at the Helm
Ab Rahaman brings over three decades of policing experience, having joined the force in 1989. His previous roles include head of management in both Kedah and Negeri Sembilan police contingents. His successor, Datuk M. Kumar, now moves on to become Director of the Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department.
The transition was overseen by Bukit Aman Management Department Director Datuk Seri Abdul Aziz Abdul Majid, adding weight to the leadership handover.
Raising Standards, Building Trust
With public trust in law enforcement often under scrutiny, Ab Rahaman stressed the need for transparent and accountable policing. By embedding empathy and responsibility into daily operations, the new chief hopes to set a national example.
“I’m confident that with the cooperation of department heads and district police chiefs, we can uphold a high level of safety and public confidence in Johor,” he stated.
The new leadership in Johor Police signals a serious commitment to reform, especially crucial in a state so intertwined with cross-border issues and regional security. For neighbours like Indonesia and Singapore, Johor’s stability and professional policing standards are vital for maintaining wider regional harmony and border security.
Sources: Malay Mail (2025) , Bernama (2025)
Keywords: Ab Rahaman Arsad, Johor Police Chief, GREAT Principles, PDRM Reform, Law Enforcement Malaysia, Johor Public Safety
