SMS: Police image

Thu, 07/03/2008 10:38 AM  |  Reader's Forum

Your comments on the image of the police, as the National Police celebrated their 62nd anniversary on July 1

I'm not sure that they can change their image soon. The problem is very complex.
FEBRIANA
Jakarta

It seems there is no change. The police are in charge of handling crimes, but many police officers are involved in crimes. Graft and intimidation are still common among the police. The change is just on the surface.
FIRMUS MO'A
Depok, West Java

The police should have been the very first subject for the KPK to exercise their role in eliminating unhealthy practices in this country. It will put the proper image back to the police as the No. 1 coordinator of law and order in this country, not the major abuser.

At the moment the police role seems like a "glorified parking attendant" and they only excel in looking after certain level of "public servants" such as ministers, instead of the general public.

They also let high-ranking public servants utilize public roads or properties for personal use. Image can only be gained by way of services. Grow up and be a real police not "collectors" of the majority. Serve your people well.
J. CHANG
Sydney

According to a survey conducted by Transparency Indonesia not long ago, the Indonesian police are the most corrupt institution in the country. So, if the police want to have a good image they should ask the KPK to investigate the top police officers around the country.
LUKMAN
Bandar Lampung

As a foreigner living in Indonesia, nothing seems more hopeless to me than expecting to be able to receive real assistance from the police in the case of an emergency or crime.

It is painfully clear that their skills and resources are incredibly limited and the idea that the police are here to "serve and protect" me is as laughable as it is frightening.

While I love living here and gave up a lot to be here, I have sadly come to accept the dangerous reality that corruption and incompetence are the two main ingredients in the police and that ultimately, there really aren't any police here that are capable of serving or protecting me in the first place.

If Indonesia is actually serious about having a credible police force, they need to pay their police a decent salary, severely punish even the slightest acts of corruption and carefully screen for trustworthy, professional and talented police officers who can be given quality training.

A faraway dream perhaps, but if ever this were to come true, quality of life would increase for the citizens and it would actually make the country more respectable and prosperous when foreigners know they can come here under a real rule of law and have police they can count on if and when they need them.
SEAN COHEN
Ubud, Bali

I have been staying in Jakarta for the past 18 years. I do violate traffic rules, but no other crimes. I have always seen and experienced the gentle and humane approach by police officers. The only requirement is to politely accept that I am wrong, never argue. Happy anniversary.
BADRI
Jakarta

The police are getting better at looking after their image but that is all they are doing, as far as keeping the peace they have no idea and very poor training.
VIN LOM
Makassar, South Sulawesi

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