Govt moves to simplify messaging to ensure public understands aid and policies

THE Ministry of Communications will continue to strengthen government communications to ensure that information on public policies, programmes and assistance is delivered clearly, accurately and in a way that is easily understood by the public, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said.

He said efforts are under way to enhance coordination across the government’s communication machinery, involving information officers, public relations officers and corporate communications units in all ministries and agencies.

“Sometimes, if we have a product or service but the target group does not know it exists, that is where the communication problem occurs,” Fahmi said after delivering an address to staff of the Information Department on Friday.

Fahmi, who is also the Madani Government’s spokesperson, said clarity in information dissemination is particularly crucial for targeted programmes, including Finance Ministry initiatives such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah, Sumbangan Asas Rahmah, MySalam and early schooling assistance.

He stressed that the use of simple, conversational language suited to local contexts is essential to prevent gaps in understanding between the government and the public.

“My instruction to them is that the language used must be grounded in reality. In Perlis, for example, the delivery may require different sentences and approaches,” he said.

“The same applies to the Chinese community, the Indian community and certain indigenous groups. The language used must be accurate and appropriate, not merely formal language or ‘Putrajaya language’,” he added.

On Thursday, Chief Secretary to the Government Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar also underscored the need to improve government communications so that all initiatives implemented are fully understood by the people.

He said it is important for ministries and departments to ensure information is conveyed clearly and to reduce the use of overly formal terms or so-called ‘Putrajaya language’ that can be difficult for the public to grasp.

In a separate development, Fahmi expressed hope that the Tun Abdul Razak Broadcasting and Information Institute can be revitalised as a strategic training centre to produce skilled government communicators capable of delivering information more effectively and responding to current needs. - January 17, 2026