KUALA LUMPUR, 9 September 2025 — Malaysia’s police force is advancing its forensic capabilities with significant investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and state-of-the-art technology to better combat evolving criminal threats, according to Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.
At the launch of the sixth National Forensic Science for Law Enforcement Symposium (NAFSLE) at the Police College, Ayob Khan underscored the urgency of aligning police technical prowess with the escalating sophistication of crime, particularly those orchestrated by global syndicates. (Ayob Khan is the 29th DIG, known for his previous leadership of CID and counter-terrorism divisions.)
“We already have the latest forensic equipment and technology, but both the skills and tools must be upgraded from time to time to align with emerging technologies. This is in response to a more complex crime landscape, which requires strengthening forensic science facilities with modern and advanced technologies to counter manipulation trends,” Ayob Khan said.
Highlighting AI’s growing role, he noted its value in virtual crime-scene reconstruction, offering deeper analytical insight for investigators. While some technologies are already in use, he emphasized the need for continuous updates to stay relevant.
The symposium drew around 280 participants, including investigating officers, academics, and experts from related agencies. Ayob Khan praised the event for not only exposing attendees to current forensic challenges but also catalysing innovation in investigative practices and prosecution.
Addressing personnel shortages, he acknowledged that the force lacks enough trained forensic officers, and that career progression in this domain remains limited. This issue, he said, has been formally raised with the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Malaysia’s strategic push into AI-driven forensic science reflects a broader regional trend toward digitally empowered policing. For markets grappling with rising sophistication in cyber and cross-border crime, the Malaysian model—combining technology upgrades with capacity-building—offers insight into modern law enforcement evolution in Southeast Asia.
