Bring in law to curb political interference in civil service, group urges Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR – The Administrative and Diplomatic Officers’ Alumni Association (Alumni PTD) has urged Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s new government to introduce a new law on the civil service.

Its president Tan Sri Abdul Halim Ali sent an open letter to the prime minister today with the suggestion, stating that such a law would create a professional civil service with a clear delineation of functions, power, and authority between the administration and civil service.

“It is of vital importance to avoid any political interference in public service appointments, as well as in administrative and financial management, especially in the award of contracts.

“Audit findings point to constant leakages and substantial losses incurred by the government due to non-adherence to financial standard operating procedures as a result of such interference,” he said.

All ministry secretaries-general and department heads must be allowed to perform their functions and fulfil their responsibilities without fear or favour, he added. 

Halim also said that Alumni PTD wanted the government to undertake a comprehensive institutional and organisational review of the civil service in light of rapid technological changes, the digital revolution, and global megatrends.

“Further, there is a need to review the remuneration and emolument packages for those in the administration and the public service to ensure they are commensurate with the relevant jobs, qualifications, and performance and, yet, are affordable,” he added.

He also stressed that the new administration and the civil service must work in tandem to reaffirm the practice of good governance through reviewing the general orders, financial general orders, and other relevant rules and regulations in the spirit of “Bersih, Cekap, dan Amanah” (Clean, Efficient, and Trust).

The association also recommended that every civil servant take an oath of service as proof of their commitment towards good governance and integrity, as well as for both the administration and civil service to totally commit to fighting corruption, which is a serious concern among Malaysians.

On the economic recovery process, Halim suggested that the administration and civil service work together to address the concerns of Malaysians, including the rising cost of living and the lack of jobs.

They also need to be more serious about austerity and prioritise improving the public service delivery system. – Bernama, November 26, 2022