PSD chief warns civil servants against joining opposition-organised rally

New Straits Times

24-07-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Civil servants have been warned to steer clear of political activities and uphold strict neutrality to maintain public confidence in the government.
This includes refraining from wearing party symbols, holding political office, or engaging in campaigning, unless permission is granted under specific circumstances.
The warning was issued via a circular signed by the Public Service Department director-general Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz.
"The civil service must remain professional, fair, and impartial, in line with the principles of neutrality and impartiality, to uphold public confidence in the service, which is the backbone of national administration," he said in the letter dated July 23.
On Sunday, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar issued a similar reminder to civil servants, warning them against participating in an opposition-backed rally scheduled for July 26.
As such, civil servants are reminded that any breach of conduct may result in disciplinary action under the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993, the circular said.
This could include penalties such as warnings, fines, forfeiture of emoluments, demotions, or even dismissal, depending on the severity of the offence.
In addition to the prohibition on political involvement, the circular also outlined the expectations placed upon civil servants, including unwavering loyalty to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as Head of State, to Malaysia as a sovereign nation, and to the government.
They were also reminded not to engage in abuse of power, conflicts of interest, or any actions that could tarnish the image of the public service.
"All public officers have signed the Letter of Undertaking (Aku Janji) as stipulated under the Public Officers (Appointments, Promotions and Termination of Services) Regulations 2012.
"This undertaking is a written commitment by public officers to adhere to government rules and instructions throughout their service," it said.
It also reminded civil servants that they are prohibited from making public statements without authorisation.
They are not allowed to make public remarks that involve spreading false information, defamatory or provocative content, or statements whose accuracy cannot be confirmed, whether through articles, verbal communication, or on social media platforms.
This ban includes comments on government policy, internal departmental matters, or issues that may cast doubt or create egative perceptions regarding the credibility of the civil service, the circular said.