Former Kelantan police chief Datuk Jalaluddin Abdul Rahman has been appointed as Sabah Police Commissioner, replacing Datuk Hamza Taib who will assume the post of Commercial Crime Investigation deputy director in Bukit Aman.

The handing over of duties held at the Sabah police contingent headquarters was witnessed by Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order director Datuk Seri Salleh Mat Rashid today.

Jalaluddin in his address, pledged to lead and enhance the state Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM)'s image with full commitment.

He also called on the state PDRM workforce to work together with him in implementing the department's agenda, plans and policies.

"There is no 'routine' duty in my diary. Every task is important and should be regarded as priority. That has always been my practice and I pray that Allah would grant me the will and capability to be a good leader to the PDRM in Sabah," he said.

Incidentally, he was a marine officer in Sabah from 1978 until 1990.

Jalaluddin said he would use his experience to safeguard the existing peace and security in the state.

Meanwhile, Hamza who had served in the police force for 39 years, said his bitter sweet challenges and working experience with officers, personnel and staff had assisted him in his career as a police officer.

Speaking to reporters later, he said his three years and eight months' stint as Sabah police commissioner had been the most challenging.

"As Sabah police commissioner, I did what I could, to the best of my ability. We handled the terrorist intrusion in Lahad Datu and 13th general election rather well," he said.