PUTRAJAYA: The civil service is capable but there is still room for improvement, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
As such, complacency should be avoided, he told a gathering of more than 1,000 top civil servants from all ministries and government departments at Puspanitapuri Dewan de Seri Endon here Friday (Jan 3), the first gathering of its kind this year.
Anwar said increasing efficiency would mean nothing if the waiting period for the public is not shortened when accessing government services.
He further called on top civil servants to ensure that more training and opportunities are given to younger civil servants to enable them to develop their skills in all areas to create a capable and well-trained second tier.
“We have had no big scandals in the last two years. The Madani government is about values and it is the responsibility of the civil service to boost the economy and performance of the country.
“Weaknesses should be fixed and improved on. Opportunities to equip and train civil servants should be given so that they have the abilities.
"The strength of civil servants should be above the theoretical framework.
“If extra training is needed – not merely academic degree – be it locally or overseas, the young civil servants (should be) given exposure.
“Technical training must be provided at all levels. (Our civil service team) must be... exemplary among the developing countries,” he said.
Anwar also called on the top leadership to look into payment for jobs contracted out by the government.
“Wages should be fair. The updated Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA) was to appreciate the service of the civil servants.
"However, civil servants have to be dynamic and not stay as they are. Being grateful does not mean we should remain comfortable. We should strive to be par excellence.
"Better service is to be expected such as speeding up approvals (for the public),” he added.
Last year, civil servants received up to a 42.7% pay hike under the revised SSPA.
In his address, Anwar also called upon civil servants to garner their information from the right channels and not listen to propaganda.
“I feel drowned with talk of race and religion. Those who take care of their constituents should not look at race and religion. If help is needed, there should be no differentiation by race or religion.
“I hope for the cooperation of civil servants to explain to those who criticise,” he said.
