PRIME Minister Anwar Ibrahim today called on civil servants to work with the government leadership to bring about change to return the country to its heyday.

Addressing the staff of the Prime Minister’s Department, his first meeting with them since his appointment as prime minister on November 24, Anwar said civil servants need to bring the spirit of “islah” (bringing back a situation to a correct, accurate and appropriate state) for the sake of the country.

Reform is required for the country to change, he said, adding that Malaysia had reached a certain level before, but it had declined in terms of economy, stability and discipline.

“We may not be successful if the civil service is not with me,” he said in Putrajaya.

Anwar said public service is a pillar of the country and it will not change regardless of a change in government or prime minister.

“Leaders come and go, but civil servants remain in upholding the system and rules of the country,” he said.

Anwar said he wants all his soon-to-be-appointed cabinet members to forge good working relations with civil servants.

“Listen to their views… our intelligence, our tenacity, our interest will not be the same as their (civil servants) experience,” he added.

Anwar also praised the commitment of civil servants, as reflected at the special meeting of the National Action Council on Cost of Living on Sunday.

“They all came fully prepared. I was very happy, there was full attendance. We need to develop this and not allow some circles to damage the image and strength of civil servants,” he added.

Anwar said he would also go to the departments and ministries to get advice and views from civil servants.

“Only by doing this, can we be considered working as a team,” he said. – Bernama, November 29, 2022.