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6th position, a significant improvement from our ranking of 23rd position As the audience in this Forum comprise of a good mix of experienced
just three years ago. In the Global Competitiveness Report 2013, we are senior Government officials and our young upcoming talent, I would like to
ranked at the 24th position, ahead of countries such as the Republic of take this opportunity to impart some advice and words of encouragement
Korea and second behind Singapore among Southeast Asian countries. In to the future leaders of tomorrow. As the future is a challenging one, I
the Global Innovation Index 2013, Malaysia is ranked at 32nd position encourage you to be resilient, versatile and adaptable to change. Do not
from 142 countries. be resistant to change. Instead, have fresh ideas which can contribute
to the solution, and not exacerbate the problem. Equip yourselves with
Taking cognisance of the theme of this Forum, which is “Future of knowledge and immerse yourselves in the large canvas of subject-matter
Government: Charting the Way Forward for the Public Sector”, I would that will come your way. Knowledge is power, but remember that with
like to reiterate that we must not be complacent with our achievements power comes great responsibility.
and the favourable rankings that we have achieved thus far. The public
sector is doing well and making positive strides forward, but we have At the same time, take advice and learn from those who are more
the potential to do better. It goes without saying that what lies before experienced and have walked the path before you. Be humble, as your
us is indeed challenging, and we must be prepared. The findings from attitude is always more important than your aptitude. Embody the idea
PwC’s “Future of Government” study are ever more pertinent: that the of Merakyatkan Perkhidmatan Awam, work together as a team and have
Government and public sector of the future need to be innovative, empathy towards the rakyat that you serve. I am sure this will bring you
responsive and resilient. We must move from “governing the citizen” to in good stead in the future. Be the one that creates a positive ripple-effect
“governing with the citizen”, from “organisation silos” to “organisation in our service.
networks”, and instead of being mere “service providers”, to being
“service facilitators”. Certain quarters are of the opinion that those who choose to work in the
public sector are merely holding down a job. However, I believe we view
In Malaysia, we are familiar with some of these concepts, and have it otherwise - that it is a “calling” and a sense of duty towards our nation.
adopted some of the measures proposed in the study. This is good news I trust that with our commitment, dedication and willingness to serve,
for us as it indicates that we are progressing in certain areas such as Malaysia will continue to prosper and the well-being of the rakyat will
improving our efficiency and becoming more citizen-centric; issues be ensured.
which are equally relevant to many countries around the world.
Once again, I would like to express my appreciation to MAMPU and PwC
And whilst we cannot predict what lies ahead, we can always undertake for organising this Forum, and to you for your active participation. With
steps to prepare ourselves and the rakyat for whatever eventualities. In my that, I now officially close the Public Sector Forum 2013.
recent working visit to Singapore, I had the privilege to visit the Centre
for Strategic Futures. The Centre was established to develop possible
scenarios with regard to the future of Singapore. This was important
as it enabled the Government of Singapore and its people to prepare
psychologically and practically for the scenarios of the future.

I believe we can emulate what Singapore has done, but fashion it to
our own needs and criteria, so that we are better prepared to face what
may come. We must constantly remind ourselves that our actions must
always evolve around the rakyat’s needs, meeting their needs effectively,
affordably and on a timely basis. Undoubtedly, it is still a challenge to
meet the rakyat’s expectations, but we must do our level best and uphold
the responsibility entrusted to us as public officials.

Keynote Address at the Public Sector Forum 2013, Future of Government: “Charting the Way Forward for the Public Sector”.
21 November 2013, Putrajaya.

58 Humanising The Public Service : A Compilation of Speeches by the Chief Secretary to the Government 59