Amar Singh, born on 6 June 1958, stands as a symbol of perseverance, leadership, and dedication within the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM). As the Director of the Commercial Criminal Investigation Department (CCID) and the former Kuala Lumpur Police Chief, Amar Singh has cemented his legacy as a distinguished figure in Malaysia’s law enforcement history.
Early Life and Academic Achievements of Amar Singh
Amar Singh’s remarkable journey began with a strong foundation in education. Holding an LLB from the University of Buckingham, Amar further fortified his academic credentials with a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s in Criminal Justice from the University of Malaya (UM). Adding depth to his expertise, he earned a Diploma in Shariah Law and Practice from the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM).
His early academic pursuits not only highlighted his thirst for knowledge but also laid the groundwork for his exemplary career in law enforcement. Amar Singh’s intellectual curiosity and ability to adapt across disciplines became instrumental in shaping his leadership style.
A Distinguished Career in Law Enforcement
Amar Singh embarked on his policing career in 1983 after completing his Assistant Superintendent Cadet training. His first posting at the Ipoh District Police Headquarters marked the beginning of a dynamic journey that spanned over three decades. Rising through the ranks, Amar Singh held multiple key positions, each reflecting his commitment to justice and public service.
His achievements include becoming the first Indian senior officer to be appointed Commander of the Malaysian Police Training Centre (PULAPOL), Kuala Lumpur Police Chief, and Director of the Commercial Criminal Investigation Department.
Amar Singh’s career is not just a testament to individual success but also a beacon of inspiration for underrepresented communities in Malaysia. His leadership shattered barriers and paved the way for others from diverse backgrounds to aspire to leadership roles in law enforcement.
A Legacy Rooted in Policing Heritage
Amar Singh’s journey is deeply intertwined with his family’s rich history in policing. His father, Ishar Singh, was a pioneer in the Federated Malay States Police, joining the force in 1939 after emigrating from Punjab. Ishar Singh played a pivotal role during Malaysia’s Emergency period as a member of the jungle squad. Amar’s maternal grandfather, Bachan Singh, was also a constable, making Amar a third-generation police officer.
This heritage instilled in Amar Singh a profound respect for duty, discipline, and community service. The values he inherited became the driving force behind his commitment to integrity and fairness.
Breaking Barriers and Creating History
In 2016, Amar Singh made history by becoming the Kuala Lumpur Police Chief, achieving the rank of Commissioner. This milestone marked a proud moment for the Sikh community in Malaysia and symbolized a step forward in inclusivity within the Royal Malaysian Police.
Under his leadership, Amar Singh introduced policies to enhance efficiency, transparency, and community engagement. Notably, during his tenure at PULAPOL, he emphasized the importance of cultural and religious identity, encouraging Sikh trainees to tie turbans and take pride in their heritage.
Service Beyond the Call of Duty
Amar Singh’s contributions extended beyond operational excellence. He spearheaded critical investigations into high-profile commercial crimes, ensuring accountability and justice. His expertise and dedication earned him respect not only within PDRM but also among the Malaysian public.
On 5 December 2018, Amar Singh retired after more than three decades of distinguished service. His retirement marked the end of an era but also solidified his legacy as one of the most influential figures in Malaysian law enforcement.
Honors and Recognition
Throughout his career, Amar Singh was honored with numerous awards for his service:
- Officer of the Order of the Defender of the Realm (KMN)
- Companion of the Order of Loyalty to the Crown of Malaysia (JSM)
- Knight Companion of the Order of the Crown of Pahang (DIMP) – Dato’
- Commander of the Order of the Territorial Crown (PMW) – Datuk
These accolades reflect his unwavering dedication to the nation and his role as a trailblazer in law enforcement.
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