Assoc Prof Dr Cheah Phaik Kin from the Faculty of Arts and Social Science (FAS), UTAR, delivered a talk on “Careers as an Academic and Volunteer Police Officer” in the Op Didik & Crime Prevention Programme on 27 June 2023 at SMK Dato’ Zulkifli Muhammad, Slim River, Perak.

This event was hosted by the PDRM’s Perak Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department in collaboration with PERKESO.

Dr Cheah's presentation offered an in-depth look into her professional journey as an academician and a volunteer with the Royal Malaysia Police Volunteer Reserve (Sukarelawan Simpanan Polis Diraja Malaysia). She engaged the audience with a compelling talk highlighting the symbiotic relationship between the two careers.

The presentation underscored the vast scope, responsibilities, and opportunities that lie within these fields. It sparked students’ ambitions, and motivated them to pursue higher education, while also emphasising the importance of contributing to community safety.

She said, “This event is a testament to UTAR's commitment to fostering community engagement and knowledge exchange beyond the confines of the classroom.”

“Programmes like this illustrates the broader objective of educating youth on their potential role in creating safer, and more resilient communities. It helps to shape the leaders of tomorrow, inspire innovative thinking, and nurture compassionate hearts,” she added.

The programme, launched at 7.30 am, featured a myriad of engaging and beneficial activities. The day kicked off with an energising morning workout for the students led by the enthusiastic team from PDRM's IPD Muallim. Following the workout, officers from the Muallim District Police Headquarters facilitated a road safety education briefing, emphasising the importance of adhering to traffic regulations for personal and community safety.

ASP Akmarulnizam binti Ahmad from the Sexual Crime Division (D11) of the Crime Investigation Department of Perak Contingent, presented a talk on sexual crimes to raise awareness among the students about this pressing issue. Group activities led by the members of the Crime Prevention Club and the Police Club provided opportunities for interactive learning and team building among the students.

The educational journey was further enriched by several exhibits and displays, including a showcase of PDRM's assets and vehicles, a narcotics and commercial crime exhibition by PDRM, and an impressive array of handmade crafts by the talented students at the school. The programme culminated in a memorable closing ceremony officiated by SAC Shahrum bin Hashim, the Head of the Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department of Perak. Dignitaries from the District Education Office, the Parent-Teacher Association of SMK Dato' Zulkifli Muhammad, and PERKESO graced the event.

SAC Sharum said, “The collaborative efforts demonstrated today are a shining example of how public institutions and academia can come together to inspire and equip our youth. Our aim is to create a safe and resilient society where everyone plays their part. Our focus in this programme is not just about imparting knowledge, but fostering a sense of community responsibility and nurturing our next generation to be leaders with a heart for society. Today, we have taken another step towards that vision.”

By accomplishing its objective of imparting knowledge on road safety and crime prevention, the programme left an indelible mark on the participating students. This event, marked by the synergy between academic institutions, law enforcement agencies, and community organisations, epitomises the potential for communal efforts to create enriching and transformative learning environments.