| Lyna Mohamad |
HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday called for more vigorous efforts to improve the civil service with the involvement of the private sector, in his titah at the 25th Civil Service Day Celebration at the Plenary Hall of the International Convention Centre.
Describing the civil service as a ‘mechanism in the country’s development’, the monarch also called for continual efforts to be directed towards improving and enhancing the quality of services for the general public and the country.
“It is true that the current situation has become more complex and challenging, but the time has come for the civil service to be quite proficient in overcoming conflicts or problems,” said His Majesty.
At the same time, His Majesty reminded all leaders within the civil service to be more sensitive and considerate towards their subordinates.
“Their duties and responsibilities are not merely confined to being the heads of departments, sections or units, but they must also be prepared to teach and guide their subordinates in times of difficulty. This signifies that they truly care about the welfare of their staff,” said the monarch.
“Apart from being considerate, these leaders should also possess other qualities such as knowledge and experience.”
“In this regard, I welcome the efforts of the Prime Minister’s Office, through the Public Service Department, to identify young officers in the civil service with leadership qualities.
“These young leaders will be primed under the Young Executive Programme (YEP), and I would like the relevant parties to ensure the smooth running of this programme until it meets its desired objectives.”
The monarch also welcomed the initiative being taken by the Prime Minister’s Office, through the Management Services Department and the Civil Service Institute, in its re-evaluation of the Innovation Programme within the civil service by the introduction of a new award known as ‘Anugerah Inovasi Perdana’ (Premier Innovation Award).
“I believe that this award will help to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of public administration, to the expectations of the people and the country,” said His Majesty.