Kuala lumpur: The government has unveiled a comprehensive framework under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), focusing on reinforcing integrity and accountability within the public sector. This initiative aims to cultivate a dynamic, progressive, and pragmatic civil service framework.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the 13MP document (2026-2030) released by the Ministry of Economy outlines plans to enhance performance monitoring and evaluation across all ministries. This will be achieved through the introduction of specific key performance indicators that align with selected macro-economic indicators.
The document details a mechanism to facilitate direct performance reporting from ministries to the Prime Minister, alongside the launch of a national results dashboard accessible to the public, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Beyond integrity and accountability, the plan highlights three additional strategies: legal and institutional reform, rationalisation of ministry and agency functions, and enhancement of human resource development in the public sector.
The legal and institutional reform strategy involves accelerating the separation of powers between the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor. Efforts will be concentrated on harmonising various laws and regulations to enhance government service delivery, with particular attention to aligning the jurisdictions of the Syariah and Civil Courts.
The document also proposes extending the Town and Country Planning Act 1976 (Act 172) to Sabah and Sarawak to harmonise national spatial planning, focusing on sustainability in physical, social, economic, and environmental development.
In terms of rationalisation, the government aims to reduce duplication and resource wastage by consolidating overseas missions and agency representative offices. This involves a phased approach to the rationalisation of government departments, agencies, and government-owned companies, alongside restructuring job functions and work procedures in line with technological advancements.
Additionally, the management of federal facilities such as government quarters and public training institutes will be optimised for better use.
The fourth strategy concentrates on public sector human capital development, aiming to produce competent, competitive, and future-ready civil servants. Upskilling, reskilling, leadership development, and professionalism are central to this strategy, with an emphasis on flexible career pathways and talent management.
A Royal Commission will be established to review policies related to retirement benefits, considering a shift from pension schemes to contribution-based schemes for improved long-term fiscal sustainability. Psychological and counselling services will be expanded, supported by the introduction of a public sector mental health policy and a Civil Servant Happiness Index.
The document also emphasizes strengthening service digitisation and work processes through Enterprise Architecture (EA), secure public infrastructure, and comprehensive AI usage to enhance public service delivery.
Reflecting on the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), the government highlighted initiatives like the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) 2024-2028 and the establishment of a CPI Special Task Force. Legislative progress includes the passage of over 80 pieces of legislation, focusing on integrity, accountability, and transparency, including amendments to the Companies Act 2016, the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012, and the Audit Act 1957.