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New Straits Times
3 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
NST Leader: Of Little Napoleons
Often observed throwing their weight around and lording over those who rely on them, "Little Napoleons" create tension wherever they go — be it a government department, a corporate office or a school. While their disruptive presence is widely acknowledged in Malaysian society, little has been done to curb this persistent irritation. What makes these individuals particularly bothersome is their penchant for imposing unwarranted strictures on straightforward administrative processes — actions they likely deem brilliant, or believe will serve the interests of their superiors. Such examples stretch back decades: recall how women whose attires failed to meet specific conservative values were subjected to the humiliating "hair-dryer" treatment, seemingly an assertion of moral superiority. The "Little Napoleon" concept originates from the "Napoleon Complex", also known as the "Napoleon Syndrome" or "Short-Man Syndrome". While often linked to men of short stature who display overbearing public behaviour — a perceived compensation for physical or social shortcomings — the full extent of a Little Napoleon's conduct is rarely visible. Their actions are, in fact, much worse when unobserved. These individuals shower favouritism on the well-connected or those willing to "pay extra", disregarding established procedures. They deliberately obstruct or delay services, creating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, and demand bribes for essential services or approvals. They also harass and threaten those who challenge their actions, using their influence to suppress dissent. A clear example is when Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Putra Jamalullail, criticised the "Little Napoleon" culture at the Kangar Municipal Council after a rebranding initiative, meant to reflect its statewide role, was deliberately undermined; a critique the state's top officials quickly acknowledged. The "Little Napoleon" phenomenon, far from being a simple nuisance, has bred public distrust, bureaucratic inefficiency and organisational demoralisation. They resist modernisation, preferring traditional systems that afford them control, and oppose diversity and inclusion to maintain a homogenous workforce they can dominate. And yes, they routinely deflect accountability for their errors. Tackling this requires comprehensive governance and oversight, including increased transparency, accountability, public education and advocacy to ensure these civil servants are held responsible. Perhaps establishing an independent ombudsman or internal affairs unit could effectively resolve the problem of Little Napoleons undermining the government's good work. Public service unions are known to defend "Little Napoleons", dismissing concerns about their impact on service until it's too late. Still, the government should not cower from losing public favour or give in to political blackmail when purging unmotivated, unproductive and uncommitted civil servants. For these "Little Napoleons", it's simple: shape up or get shipped out.
New Straits Times
6 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Perlis leaders promise immediate action over 'Little Napoleons' mentioned by ruler
KANGAR: The Raja of Perlis Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Putra Jamallullail's reprimand over bureaucracy and the entrenched "Little Napoleon" culture within the Kangar Municipal Council must not be taken lightly, local leaders say. Arau member of parliament Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim urged the council's president, Affendi Rajini Kanth, to act swiftly to address the issue, describing the royal reminder as firm and timely. "His Majesty's message is crystal clear and serious. The president must act without delay," he said in a Facebook post. Shahidan, who briefly served as council president between April and June 1995, was present at today's groundbreaking ceremony for the council's new headquarters at Persiaran Wawasan, opened by the Raja of Perlis himself. Perlis Menteri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli, in a separate statement, acknowledged the royal advice and pledged that all parties would respond appropriately. "Deepest gratitude to His Majesty for the advice and guidance to (the council). May every party take the necessary action," he said. When contacted, Affendi said the royal reprimand would further strengthen efforts already underway to clean up legacy practices within the council's administration. "Since I took over last year, we have been gradually rooting out this culture that has long plagued the council's system. We fully appreciate His Majesty's reminder... it motivates us to become an exemplary local authority," he said. Earlier, the His Majesty had expressed concern that bureaucratic red tape and "Little Napoleon" behaviour among certain officials continued to tarnish the council's image, an issue that, he added, had affected him personally.
Daily Express
20-06-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Territorial Army meet timely: Chief Minister
Published on: Friday, June 20, 2025 Published on: Fri, Jun 20, 2025 Text Size: Hajiji (center) with Tun Musa (right) and Tuanku Syed Faizuddin (left) at the SKAW Gala Dinner. Kota Kinabalu: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor expressed hope that the Commander Territorial Army Conference (SKAW), held in the State, will serve as the best platform to discuss key matters including national security and efforts to strengthen the Territorial Army as part of the country's defence. Hajiji, who is also Patron of the Sabah Territorial Army Support Committee (JAKPAW), reaffirmed the State Government's support for the Territorial Army's activities in Sabah. Advertisement 'That is why I fully welcome the Commander Conference being held here. I've been informed that among the key objectives of this conference is to discuss ways to empower the Territorial Army in terms of administration and logistics,' he said. He emphasised that as a state located near several neighbouring countries, we must prioritise security to ensure peace and prosperity in Sabah, and to protect the safety of our people. 'In carrying out our development agenda under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) roadmap, maintaining peace and harmony is vital,' he said at the SKAW Series 37/2025 Gala Dinner hosted by the State Government on Wednesday. He said the Sabah Maju Jaya initiative not only focuses on three key economic sectors including agriculture, industry and tourism, but also on human capital development, people's well-being, infrastructure networks and environmental sustainability. Advertisement 'In terms of people's well-being, we are continuously taking proactive steps, including providing housing for the rural poor under the SMJ Friendly Housing Programme across all 73 state constituencies. 'The State Government also provides various educational assistance to help Sabah's children continue their schooling. 'This is why I stress the importance of security to allow more development to take place in Sabah,' he said. Hajiji also expressed appreciation for Sabah being chosen to host this year's conference. 'This event not only honours the members of the Commander Conference but also strengthens ties between the Sabah State Government and the Malaysian Armed Forces, especially the Territorial Army,' Hajiji said. Also present were Sabah Head of State Tun Musa Aman and his wife Toh Puan Faridah Tussin, His Royal Highness Brigadier General Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Ibni Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail, Raja Muda of Perlis and Commander of the 504 Territorial Army Regiment, accompanied by Her Royal Highness Raja Puan Muda of Perlis Tuanku Dr Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil. Also present were His Highness Tengku Seri Temenggong Raja Brigadier General Dato' Seri Tengku Baharuddin Ibni Almarhum Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah, Commander of the 512 Territorial Army Regiment, and his wife Toh Puan Seri Zuriana binti Ismail. Joining them were Sabah State Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Kadzim Haji M. Yahya and his wife, Datin Seri Norani Salleh, State Secretary Datuk Seri Safar Untong and his wife Datin Seri Datuk Dr Nuinda Alias, and Federal Secretary for Sabah Datuk Seri Rosli Isa and his wife, Datin Seri Norwani Muhamad Shariff. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Borneo Post
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Perlis royals in Kuching for Gawai Parade, RWMF
Tuanku Syed Faizuddin (second left) with Gerald (left) at the KIA today. – Information Department photo KUCHING (June 19): The Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, and the Raja Puan Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil, arrived in Kuching today for a four-day official visit to Sarawak. According to the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), Their Royal Highnesses touched down at Kuching International Airport (KIA) at 2pm and were warmly welcomed by Deputy State Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu. This evening, the royal couple is expected to attend a private dinner hosted by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar. Tomorrow (June 20), Their Royal Highnesses will visit the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre to witness Sarawak's renowned orangutan conservation efforts. In the evening, they are scheduled to attend the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) at the Sarawak Cultural Village, one of the region's most celebrated cultural and tourism events. The highlight of the visit will take place on Saturday, when Tuanku Syed Faizuddin and Tuanku Lailatul Shahreen are expected to witness the 2025 Gawai Dayak Parade at the Square Tower along Jalan Main Bazaar at the Kuching Waterfront. The parade is a major event in Sarawak's cultural calendar, celebrating the rich heritage and traditions of the Dayak community. Their Royal Highnesses are set to conclude their visit on Sunday evening, departing from KIA to Penang at 7.15pm.
Daily Express
18-06-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
CM backs stronger Territorial Army role in Sabah
Published on: Wednesday, June 18, 2025 Published on: Wed, Jun 18, 2025 Text Size: Head of State Tun Musa Aman and His Royal Highness Raja Muda of Perlis Brig Gen Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Ibni Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail, 504 Territorial Army Regiment Commander, attended the dinner accompanied by Hajiji. KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the Territorial Army Commander Conference (SKAW) in Sabah serves as a vital platform to address key security and defence matters. He expressed support for strengthening the Territorial Army's role as part of the State's security safeguarding, particularly in national borders. Advertisement Hajiji noted the conference will discuss administrative and logistical aspects to further empower the Territorial Army. Given Sabah's proximity to neighbouring countries, he stressed the importance of maintaining security to protect the State's peace and public safety. He made the remarks during a dinner hosted by the State Government in conjunction with the 37th SKAW here on Wednesday. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
