PUTRAJAYA: Civil servants must continuously strive to improve the quality of their service instead of being content with existing achievements, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Speaking at the National Development Awards and Symposium programme, the Prime Minister said Malaysia’s development agenda required extra effort and a renewed commitment to integrity, empathy and excellence.
“It is not enough to maintain what we have achieved. We must always seek to improve and perfect our service to the people,” he said.
Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, stressed that the true meaning of development went beyond the construction of buildings, industries or the pursuit of technology.
“Real development is about building human character; about dignity; compassion and responsibility. We can have wealth and progress, but without justice and moral strength, the nation cannot endure,” he said.
Anwar added that the Malaysia Madani framework emphasised these humane values, reminding civil servants to carry out their duties with sincerity, honesty and accountability.
Anwar said public servants must always ask whether they were doing their best.
“Have we truly fulfilled our responsibilities with sincerity and honesty? Have our ideas and efforts genuinely uplifted the nation and defended those left behind?” he inquired the audience.
Anwar also highlighted Malaysia’s encouraging economic performance, noting that the country had recorded its highest-ever investment levels, lowest unemployment rate and one of the region’s strongest-performing currencies.
“Do not take for granted what this country has achieved so far. Malaysia is not a large country, but we have achieved much because of stability, teamwork and effective governance.
“So what is the challenge for us now? Do not assume that these will remain forever. This is our responsibility. To ensure what has been built, would not collapse,” he said.
Anwar called for unity and a renewed spirit of dedication among the civil servants, who totalled more than a million.
“Imagine if 500,000 public officers rise tomorrow and say enough with corruption, abuse or divisive politics. Let us serve sincerely and build this nation together.
“If that spirit prevails, Malaysia will rise beyond imagination, in which the nation’s success will surpass any to country it is compared to,” he said.
Anwar also expressed his gratitude to the civil servants for their commitment and urged them to continue embodying the values of compassion and integrity in their work.
“If our hearts are touched and our conscience stirred, we can achieve miracles,” he added.
