KOTA KINABALU: “Little Napoleons” within the state government are impeding and obstructing development plans and action must be taken against them, says Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.
He said these senior officers blocking or slowing down the implementation of government plans have become a serious concern.
“They abuse their power by enforcing regulations excessively and sometimes engage in activities that inadvertently deter investors.
“Such behaviour can curtail opportunities vital for Sabah’s advancement,” he said in a statement yesterday.
“Little Napoleons” in the civil service typically refer to officials who indulge in petty displays of power, delay approvals, sit on files and impede progress.
Last week, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor issued a warning to department heads in Sabah that action would be taken if they were found hindering the state’s efforts to attract investors.
He said there had been instances where department heads were found to have unilaterally imposed their own set of rules for those interested in investing in Sabah.
By doing so, they had sent the wrong signals to these investors who then shied away from pursuing opportunities in the state, he added.
“I agree with the Chief Minister on the need for department heads to be placed under strict supervision,” said Kitingan.
“It is critical for those with position and authority to encourage rather than stifle investments.
“These investments are pivotal for our economic development and job creation.”
The Deputy Chief Minister also said there was a need for ethical conduct among government officers, especially those in positions of power.
“Our civil servants must maintain the highest standard of integrity and ethics.
“We must ensure Sabah’s reputation remains untarnished and appealing to investors,” he added.
Kitingan said the Chief Minister’s commitment to taking punitive action was necessary to ensure the state remains investor-friendly.
“Our government is committed to welcoming investors without bureaucratic hindrances,” he added.
He also stressed that dereliction of duty would not be tolerated.
