Jurnal Psikologi Malaysia, 2013;olume 27:117-135.

Abstract

Polis Diraja Raja Malaysia (PDRM) is the biggest law enforcement organization in the nation. Therefore, professionalism characteristics are emphasized in job tasks. However, since the year 2005 to 2011 SUHAKAM received 569 reports related to civil non-compliance among PDRM officers that affected PDRM’s professionalism. In relation to that, this study aimed to identify the validity of the claim that civil non-compliance factor affects the professionalism of PDRM’s officers. A total of 223 respondents were selected purposively around the area of Ibu Pejabat Polis Daerah Kajang, Selangor administration. Civil non-compliance questionnaire and professionalism questionnaire were established by the reserchers based on community’s reports to SUHAKAM, Smith’s (2004) theory of civil non-compiance, Nayman’s (1973) professionalism model and PDRM’s codes of ethics. Regression analysis results showed that delay in action and power abuse, except excessive brutality subfactor, are the two civil non-compliance subfactors that influence four subfactors of PDRM professionalism. They are expertise, commitment, autonomy and responsibility. Outcome of this study indicates that delay in action factor and power abuse are the main factors that have to be focused by PDRM to change the negative perception of society towards PDRM professionalism. This study gives an impact that society’s belief towards PDRM professionalism can be improved through institutional reinforcement, positive relationship with the community and honesty such as those outlined in the institutional theory. Police officers’ communication skill aspect with youth must also be refined. Future research needs to re-examine professionalism and civil non-compliance concepts from the perspective of PDRM officers and its comparison with the youth group.