Gerakan applauds and welcomes the assurance given by the Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Mohd Sidek Hassan that the government will not be race, gender or creed bias when it comes to recruiting civil servants. Gerakan had previously submitted a memorandum urging the civil service to promote diversity which truly reflects the composition of the Malaysian society. This assurance is consistent with the Barisan Nasional’s objective of facilitating development through social harmony and communal collaboration. 

We believe the civil service is a critical catalyst to economic development and social progress. As a key player in the policy formulation and implementation process, the civil service is more than just an administrative arm of the government. On the other hand, the new competitive landscape has put the public-private partnership as a single most important determinant of a successful economy. Hence, administrative competence of government in policy implementation and business facilitation is very crucial. We support the Chief Secretary’s plan to attract the best to work with the administration.

This is an important first step towards the creation of a truly first-class civil service. Gerakan is confident the move will lead to a more open, dynamic and merit based system of recruitment and work ethnics.

In line with globalization, it is inevitable for the civil service to heed the call for better state competence and effectiveness, to adopt internationally acceptable sets of values, standards and practices and to be more responsive to communities and civil groups. We are glad the call is responded by a proactive and positive statement by the Chief Secretary.

We would like to urge Malaysians, especially young graduates, of all races to respond to the call to participate in the governance process and apply to join the civil service if they believe that they are qualified. Let’s work together to help transform the Malaysian Civil Service into a world-class administration.

Dato’ Seri Chia Kwang Chye
Secretary-General,
Parti Gerakan Rakyat Malaysia.