Najib: Balance between individual and public freedom vital for democracy

PUTRAJAYA: There must be a balance between individual freedom and public interests for Malaysia to be regarded as a mature democratic nation, with respect for people's fundamental rights and the police in carrying out their duties, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

"This is very challenging as it is not easy. If we choose the easy way, we will not be carrying out transformation.

"But if we don't do transformation while the people demand it, there will be conflict between the people and government, which is not healthy," he said at a gathering of about 300 retired senior police officers.

Present were former inspectors-general of police Tun Hanif Omar, Tan Sri Abdul Rahim Noor and Tan Sri Norian Mai.

Najib said when a government could bring about transformation in line with the people's needs and demands, then they would appreciate the government more, and also the police.

He said that was why the government had stressed on the need to have a people-friendly police force, with their presence not to cause fear or worry to the public but to be seen as ensuring peace and security.

The prime minister said the people today demanded a bigger latitude; their fundamental rights be given consideration so that they could enjoy full freedom, and that was why the government had amended certain laws.