PUTRAJAYA - Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for greater exposure of civil servants to new technologies to enhance their efficiency and reduce reliance on foreign and external consultants. Speaking at a recent event, Anwar, who also holds the Finance Minister portfolio, stressed that a transformation within the civil service is essential to keep pace with the challenges of a rapidly evolving era.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the changing landscape of public service demands that civil servants adapt and maximize their potential for the nation's progress. Recalling the 1980s and 1990s, he noted that government officials at the time primarily handled key decisions related to finance, economy, and monetary affairs, with minimal involvement from consultants.
He pointed to the efficient execution of projects during that period, suggesting that with the right support and training, civil servants could independently manage and successfully complete complex tasks without the current high dependence on external expertise.
"Back then, projects were implemented efficiently, indicating that civil servants were capable of handling these responsibilities effectively. However, upon assuming my duties, I observed an increased reliance on foreign consultants and external experts," Anwar stated.
This observation has prompted a call for a shift in approach. He proposed to the Chief Secretary to the Government (KSN) to revamp the current system, focusing on nurturing and developing young civil servants equipped with the necessary expertise, skills, and competencies to meet the nation's needs without excessive reliance on foreign consultants.
Anwar's vision for a more self-reliant civil service includes assigning meaningful and impactful projects to civil servants and providing continuous training and exposure to new technologies to enhance their performance. He clarified that this training does not necessarily need to be formal academic programs like PhDs or Master's degrees but rather any professional training that provides an overview of new technologies and their applications.
"It is crucial to ensure that civil servants are equipped with expertise, especially in areas related to new technologies, to enable them to continue being effective in their roles," the Prime Minister asserted.
Furthermore, Anwar lauded the successful implementation of the Malaysian Remuneration System (SSPA), a performance-based compensation system designed to improve productivity within the public service while safeguarding the welfare of civil servants. He attributed the system's success to the teamwork and collective dedication of civil servants towards national development.
Anwar noted that the SSPA, which took effect on December 1, 2024, replaces the previous Malaysian Salary System (SSM), with a focus on linking rewards to performance.
He reiterated that continued reliance on outdated methods and systems would likely hinder the nation from realizing its full potential. His call to action underscores the need for reforms within the civil service to meet the demands of the modern age.
"If we are serious about advancing this nation and elevating its standing in the international arena, we must recognize that clinging to old ways is likely unsustainable," the Prime Minister emphasized.
Anwar also took the opportunity to express his gratitude for the professionalism and dedication of the outgoing KSN, Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali, acknowledging his significant role, along with other civil servants, in supporting the government's agenda.
"Tan Sri Mohd Zuki and civil servants have served with loyalty, dedication, and full cooperation to the government," Anwar remarked, adding, "This has greatly facilitated my smooth transition into the Prime Minister's office."
The event was attended by various high-ranking officials, further emphasizing the importance of collaboration and continuous reform within the public sector to address the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Anwar Ibrahim's remarks signal a strong commitment from the Malaysian government towards fostering innovation and strengthening in-house capabilities within its civil service. Building on past successes, the strategy involves enhancing the expertise of civil servants through the adoption of new technologies and systematic education and training. This aims to reduce unnecessary external dependence, improve the efficiency of national finances, and ultimately strengthen the nation's competitiveness. The successful implementation of the performance-based remuneration system (SSPA) is expected to be a significant driving force behind this transformation.
However, achieving these goals will require the establishment of concrete implementation plans, securing necessary budgets, and ensuring the active participation and cooperation of the civil service. Moreover, it will be crucial to not only focus on technical training but also to create an environment where new technologies can be effectively applied and utilized in actual work processes.
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