Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia continues to strengthen its public sector to meet the evolving needs of its people while contributing meaningfully to the Sustainable Development Goals. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof highlighted the country’s achievements under the Tenth Malaysia Plan (2011-2015) during his speech at the United Nations Public Service Forum 2025.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia made significant progress in digitalising public service delivery, with over 10,000 government services-accounting for 77 percent-being made available online. This effort greatly enhanced access and convenience for citizens. The Deputy Prime Minister also emphasized that licensing burdens at both federal and local levels were reduced by nearly 60 percent, with over RM9 billion saved through value management efforts and the elimination of more than 38,000 redundant positions.
Fadillah noted that a key pillar of the civil service’s transformation is the adoption of H.E.M.A.T, a framework comprising five core values: Hijrah Tatakelola (Governance Transformation), Empati Rakyat (Empathy for the People), Minda Pekin (Progressive Mindset), Apresiasi Inovasi (Appreciation of Innovation), and Tadbir Urus Telus (Transparent Governance). Introduced by the Director-General of Public Service, H.E.M.A.T encapsulates the spirit of responsible leadership and a renewed commitment to quality service delivery.
In addition, Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, launched a comprehensive Public Service Reform Agenda. This agenda focuses on value-based governance, human capital development, organizational strengthening, service delivery, and public-private sector collaboration. These reforms are supported by the Associated and Integrated Strategy, ensuring technology and data are embedded in governance transformation.
Fadillah further emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to a sustainable future through the establishment of the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA). This reflects the government’s strategic decision to align critical public utilities with climate action, technological innovation, and inclusive development. PETRA is tasked with transforming energy and water governance models, promoting renewable energy adoption, enhancing energy efficiency, and modernizing water resource management.
The welfare and professionalism of Malaysian civil servants remain a priority, Fadillah stressed. The newly introduced Public Service Remuneration System, effective December 2024, reflects this focus by embedding performance-based rewards, phased salary adjustments, and clear career pathways aligned with the MADANI vision to foster a just, inclusive, and high-performing society.
The United Nations Public Service Forum 2025 runs until June 25.