On 28 April 2010, CG Norman Muhamad and the Heads of Department visited the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Police Academy at the invitation of Deputy Chief Terry S. Hara. Deputy Chief Hara is the Commanding Officer for Operations West Bureau (OWB), overseeing the geographic area operations of Hollywood, Wilshire, West Los Angeles, Pacific, Station #20, LAX Substation and West Traffic Divisions.
The delegation was welcomed by Deputy Chief Hara and was treated to a “typical police lunch” at the Academy’s historic café. During the visit, the delegation was given a brief tour of the Academy with explanation of its long history. Chief Terry took the opportunity to brief on the successful community outreach programme that the LAPD runs. Deputy Chief Hara is especially proud of the LAPD youth programme, such as the Police Activity League (PAL) and Law Enforcement Programme. The CG and Deputy Chief Terry exchanged views on possible areas of cooperation between LAPD and Police di-Raja Malaysia.
The highlight of the visit was the shooting simulation exercise, where the delegation was exposed to possible situations and scenarios faced by LAPD in upholding the laws and protecting civilians. The exercise has given the delegation a new appreciation of the difficulty and complexity facing LAPD officers in their everyday job.