THE government needs civil servants who are professional and trustworthy to implement its policies effectively, Anwar Ibrahim said.

The prime minister said civil servants need to work with the government leadership to bring about change that can take the country back to its glory days.

“I urge all administrative and diplomatic officers (PTD) to inculcate the culture of a clean, efficient and trustworthy administration as well as assist the government to formulate and maintain the public policy portfolios effectively.

“The government need civil servants who can be a catalyst for change, be competent in the process of knowledge creation that leads to incremental and radical innovation.

“Aspects of accountability, transparency, integrity and responsibility must be the basis when carrying out their duties,” he said at a PTD dinner in Petaling Jaya tonight.

His speech was read out by Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof.

Anwar also urged civil servants to change their direction and commitment towards service and responsibility, and discard the old style of following orders without looking at the procedures involved.

“In essence, this is in line with the principles of governance and rule of law.

“In the same context, I am aware of the need to ensure a good understanding and cooperation among civil servants and PTD,” he said.

According to the prime minister, the process of transformation and changes that are intended need a strong institution like the National Institute of Public Administration to carry out programmes and training that can be effective.

The PTD dinner was held to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the setting up of Malayan Civil Service, which is currently known as Malaysian Administrative and Diplomatic Service.

Also present were the Public Service Department director-general Shafiq Abdullah and PTD Alumni Association president Abdul Halim Ali. – Bernama, December 11, 2022.