Keep civil servants out of toxic politics

A TROUBLING trend is emerging across the country – the vilification of civil servants caught in the crossfire of partisan agendas.

In their haste to score political points or provoke public sentiment, some parties involve public servants in controversies where they do not belong, damaging the reputation of our public institutions and undermining the foundations of good governance.

Malaysia’s civil service is, and must remain, the cornerstone of our functioning democracy. It must be non-partisan, professional, and dedicated to serving the people regardless of the political winds of the day.

Weaponising their work for political gain is not only irresponsible, it also undermines the machinery that ensures stability, service delivery, and continuity in our nation’s administration.

Consider the recent cases involving local enforcement officers and individuals commonly referred to as “Abang Belon” and “Pak Cik Petai”.

These cases were widely sensationalised, leading some to quickly label the enforcement actions as heartless or oppressive. However, the officers acted within the law and adhered to due process after providing repeated warnings.

What unfolded instead was a wave of online outrage, much of it fuelled by half-truths and assumptions. Civil servants were portrayed as villains, and their professionalism was publicly questioned before the facts were fully understood.

This rush to judgement, primarily driven by social media narratives, unfairly tarnishes reputations and undermines trust in enforcement agencies.

A similar pattern emerged during the tragic gas pipeline explosion in Putra Heights, which left over 130 residents injured. Emergency personnel responded with urgency and bravery, risking their lives to protect others.

Yet, even in this situation, baseless claims and conspiracy theories circulated online, suggesting misconduct or cover-ups. These unfounded accusations greatly undermine the efforts of the men and women who dedicate themselves to public safety.

We must remind ourselves that every civil servant begins their journey with an oath, an unwavering commitment to the nation, the Constitution, and the principle of honest, efficient, and trustworthy service.

That oath binds them to the government of the day – not to a political party but to a legitimate and democratic administration elected by the people.

This neutrality ensures fair access to services. Teachers educate every child equally, and healthcare professionals treat all patients with compassion. Enforcement officers uphold the law irrespective of political affiliation. These acts of service are not politically motivated; they are guided by professionalism, responsibility, and public duty.

Morale suffers when civil servants become targets of political intimidation or public ridicule. Effectiveness declines when their actions are second-guessed based on social media narratives instead of facts. And when officers begin to fear backlash for simply doing their jobs, we risk paralysing our public institutions.

Worse still, this toxicity breeds indecision, particularly in enforcement scenarios. Officers may hesitate, not due to a lack of integrity but out of fear of becoming the next viral headline. This situation is not only unfair, it is dangerous, too.

Constructive criticism of government agencies is not only permitted; it is essential in any democracy. However, such criticism must be rooted in truth, directed through appropriate channels, and motivated by a desire to improve and not to destroy. Social media should not serve as a tool for character assassination.

All politicians, activists, the media, and the general public share the responsibility of safeguarding the integrity of our civil service. We must resist any efforts to involve them in partisan disputes or turn them against the people they serve.

A competent, ethical, and neutral civil service is clearly a national treasure. In times of crisis or calm, they bear the weight of the country on their shoulders. Allowing them to become targets of smear campaigns or scapegoats for political gain risks weakening not only our institutions but also the very fabric of our society.

Let us not abandon the values of truth, dignity, and decency in pursuing power, influence, or viral fame. The civil service deserves better – and so does Malaysia.

ZUKIFEREE IBRAHIM

Director of Corporate Communication Office

Universiti Malaysia Terengganu