Misuse of PDRM’s official identity or logo for commercial purposes may lead to legal action under the Communications and Multimedia Act, says IGP.
KUALA LUMPUR: The unauthorised use of the Royal Malaysia Police’s (PDRM) official identity, or its misuse in a manner that creates the impression that the force endorses a product or service, may be investigated and subjected to legal action, said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail.
He said the police viewed seriously any use of the force’s name, logo, official identity or images of police officers by any individual, company or organisation for promotional, marketing, advertising or commercial purposes without prior authorisation.
The force’s official identity was an institutional asset that must be safeguarded and should not be exploited for commercial gain or in a manner that creates a misleading impression, he said.
“PDRM wishes to emphasise that the presence of any police officer at a programme should not be construed as an endorsement, support or recognition of any product, service, investment or commercial activity.
“The public is advised not to assume that any product or service has received PDRM’s official approval or endorsement solely because PDRM personnel are involved in a programme,” he said in a statement today.
Mohd Khalid said such cases could be investigated and appropriate action taken under the relevant legal provisions, including Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588), subject to the facts of the case and the elements of the offence being established.
“PDRM remains committed to safeguarding the integrity, credibility and official identity of the force, while ensuring that all forms of cooperation with external parties are conducted transparently, professionally and in accordance with the law, in order to maintain public confidence in the force,” he said.
