SEREMBAN: In a set of measures aimed at fostering a sense of pride and patriotism, love and loyalty to the country among the 1.6 million-strong civil servants, the Rukun Negara is to be recited at least once a week at all government premises, and at official government functions.
Also in the list released by the Prime Minister’s Department is that the Jalur Gemilang should be flown throughout the year at all government premises and not be limited to National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations.
As for those living in government quarters, they are required to fly the Jalur Gemilang during National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations.
The comprehensive guidelines were spelt out in a circular dated March 17 and signed by Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
It was unveiled at the state-level “Jelajah Taat Setia Madani” (Madani Loyalty Tour) here yesterday, which was also attended by Negri Sembilan Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.
Shamsul Azri reminded the civil servants that it is not only important for them to improve the quality of public service delivery but also to strengthen national unity, stability and the integrity of their services.
“They play an important role in implementing government policies with full responsibility and professionalism,” he said.
He also urged public sector employees to learn to be well versed in the provisions of the Federal Constitution.
He called on department heads to organise special courses and workshops for civil servants to better understand the Constitution, including the powers of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the rights of the people, and the roles and responsibilities of government institutions.
“This will reinforce the understanding that every government action must comply with the constitutional framework,” he said.
The list also outlines the need for the staff to have a better grasp of history to appreciate the sacrifices of past leaders, strengthen national identity, uphold Bahasa Malaysia and promote Malaysian culture while maintaining harmony in diversity and partaking in programmes to further foster unity and support locally made products.
In the circular, Shamsul Azri said civil servants should also be trained to better understand the principles of the Rukun Negara to “enable them to better carry out their duties in accordance with the provisions of the law and especially in making administrative and policy decisions”.
“It is important to continuously and systematically instil the spirit of patriotism and loyalty to the Ruler, leaders and the country among civil servants,” he added.
Government agencies, he said, should implement training or organise camps on patriotism.
In addition, these agencies are encouraged to organise visits to historical places such as the national museum and the national mausoleum to increase understanding and appreciation of the nation’s heritage.
Also encouraged are programmes on the contributions of historical figures who fought for independence and nation-building such as Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra al-Haj and Tun Dr Ismail Abdul Rahman.
Shamsul Azri reiterated that all official affairs at home and abroad organised by the government, such as conferences, conventions and seminars, must use the national language.
“However, English can still be used in certain circumstances due to legal requirements and also in any matter that may affect the smooth delivery of services.
“Official correspondence within and outside the country, whether sent or replied to, must also be in Bahasa Malaysia entirely and be accompanied with an English translation if there is no expertise in the mother tongue of the country concerned,” he added.
Government departments are also encouraged to organise cultural programmes that reflect the diversity and harmony in Malaysia.
“Such activities include unity forums, cross-cultural programmes and inter-racial dialogues,” said Shamsul Azri.
They can also participate in patriotism campaigns organised through platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.
“This can involve sharing inspirational stories, national achievements and positive steps taken by the government to strengthen unity,” he added.
