Chief Secretary calls for overhaul of civil service rules, says Lee Lam Thye

KUALA LUMPUR: The new Chief Secretary to the Government’s call for a change to outdated laws comes at the right time, says Malaysian Integrity Institute member Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye (photo).

He added that Datuk Seri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar emphasised the need to amend the outdated civil service regulations to promote honesty, integrity and accountability.

Lee added that outdated policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs) can foster abuse of power and corruption.

“Outdated regulations can make it difficult for government officials to meet the demands of modern governance,” Lee said on Sunday (Sept 8).

He added that he believed a comprehensive review could eliminate outdated practices and introduce regulations that are better adapted to the rapidly changing working and social conditions of today.

Lee stressed that establishing stronger oversight mechanisms through such a review could lead to better management of public resources and reduction of unnecessary expenditure.

He proposed engaging various stakeholders, including civil society and the general public, in the review process through a social media platform, which he believed would lead to a more inclusive and beneficial outcome for all.

Lee also asked about progress on the establishment of the Malaysian Ombudsman, which is to replace the Public Complaints Office.

“The plan was for this body to independently address public complaints about government departments and procedures, which is a key aspect of promoting transparency and good governance,” he said.

Lee added that the ombudsman will hold government institutions and officials accountable, ensure ethical practices and standards are upheld, and serve as a bridge between citizens and the government to protect individual rights.

He added that artificial intelligence (AI) should be implemented to increase the efficiency of government service delivery.

“AI has the potential to significantly increase efficiency by automating routine tasks, freeing up government officials to perform more strategic tasks, and providing data-driven information to aid decision-making,” Lee said.