PUTRAJAYA: Possible cost-saving measures for the Human Resources ministry and the private sector will be discussed in the upcoming special Cabinet meeting tomorrow, says its Minister Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan (pic).
He said among the possible measures that are being considered is the implementation of work-from-home for his ministry’s employees and the private sector.
“We have seen what Thailand has done, and we are currently conducting studies on this, so once the study is completed, I will receive a briefing tomorrow from the deputy secretaries-general and the divisions involved.
“I will then present the findings to the special Cabinet meeting on Friday,” he told reporters during a press conference here yesterday.
The meeting will also discuss how ministries can collaborate and support one another in implementing cost-saving processes and measures.
“If we ourselves do not practise savings but ask the people to do so, that would not be fair.
“Therefore, we too must be prepared, and we must lead the people by example,” Ramanan said.
He said this comes amid concerns that the ongoing Middle East conflict will be prolonged and lead to further global economic woes, as the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil-shipping route, remains closed by Iran.
On Tuesday, Thailand’s Cabinet approved urgent measures requiring government officials to work from home immediately as part of efforts to cope with the energy crisis stemming from tensions in the Middle East.
It also introduced mandatory energy-saving policies across government workplaces, such as locking all air-conditioning 26ºC and suspending non-essential overseas trips.
Speaking on the ongoing issue of individuals threatening to demolish places of worship, Ramanan said the government will take firm action against anyone found responsible for such threats.
“Firm action will be taken immediately, as they will first be charged in court, and if such actions continue, even stricter legal action will be taken.
“This is a national issue, and we are not taking sides with anyone. If you break the law, you will face the consequences,” he said.
