Public servants must uphold integrity, reject corruption – Chief Secretary
Shamsul (center) posing with the civil servants during the event.-Information Department photo
TAWAU (May 11): Public servants in the country must uphold the Federal Constitution and always adhere to the principle of the rule of law as the foundation of the nation's governance system.
The Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Shamsul Azril Abdul Bakar, said public servants are responsible for setting an example in demonstrating compliance with the legal system and governance with integrity.
'Loyalty is not merely about reciting an oath but is a lifelong commitment. Public servants must uphold the values of integrity, ethics, and excellence in their service.
'This loyalty must be proven by an uncompromising rejection of any form of corruption. Integrity and ethics are the foundation of a service culture that must be embraced throughout one's tenure,' he said.
He stated this when officiating the closing ceremony of the MADANI Rakyat Programme: Together with the Chief Secretary to the Government at the Tawau Community Hall on Sunday.
Shamsul also emphasized that public servants are not merely performing duties but are responsible for contributing to the well-being of the people and the prosperity of the nation.
'As public servants and stewards on this earth, we must carry out our duties with sincere intentions and ensure that every action is taken justly and prudently,' he said.
In his speech, he also touched on Malaysia's role as the ASEAN Chair this year, which carries the theme 'Inclusivity and Sustainability.'
'I am confident that this responsibility will showcase the capabilities and high commitment of the country's public servants in undertaking the strategic role as ambassadors of professionalism and excellence for Malaysia on the regional stage,' he said.
Commenting on Malaysia's position in the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index published by Transparency International, he said Malaysia is now ranked second among ASEAN countries after Singapore, with a score of 50 points.
'I urge all public servants to continue upholding high integrity values and reject any form of power abuse.
We must work together to realize the nation's aspiration to be among the top 25 countries in the index by 2033,' he asserted.
Shamsul also called for the principles of integrity, transparency, and accountability to be the main pillars in every execution of trust for the nation's prosperity and the people's well-being.
Also present were the Sabah Federal Secretary, Datuk Seri Rosli Isa; the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Communications, Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa; the Director-General of the Community Communications Department, Datuk Ismail Yusop; and the President of the Tawau Municipal Council, Pang Pick Lim @ Joseph.
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