Kota Kinabalu: Deputy Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Yahya Hussin urged civil servants to perform their duties professionally, devoid of the influence of any politically sympathy to the struggle of political parties."I raise this matter as with the elections drawing close there are public complaints regarding the attitude of some civil servants who try to venture into politics.
"There is no doubt that every one of you as a public servant have your own political stance. This position is certainly in favour of or being sympathetic to the struggle of certain political parties.
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"However in the course of duty, I feel professionalism should be practiced without taking in account one's personal political standpoint," he said.
He said this in his speech while officiating at the Excellent Service Awards (APC) and presentation of MS ISO 9001: 2008 certificate in 2012 the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry Sabah at Wisma Pertanian Sabah on Monday.
He said that professionalism is important in determining the state machinery runs smoothly and orderly.
Professionalism in their service means being transparent and or not be one sided in favouring any party and to carry out their entrusted duties successfully.
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Hence, he said, the civil servants may be equated with the function of consultants in carrying out their duties.
When the consultants are awarded a contract to perform a task, the task is not carried out based on ideology, race or religion.
"The consultants will provide views to satisfy the interests that gave them the contract. The reports provided are based on the truth even if the truth is not liked by those who give the contract, " he added.
When asked by reporters later about the number of civil servants found venturing into politics, Yahya said the number was small.
"There are only a few so it's under control. There are also one of two who are interested to be political candidates but it is not a big issue.
What I have said is just a reminder to them. On the whole it is good.
"When it is close to election time there are all sorts of rumours flying around but the reality is there is no blatant involvement of civil servants venturing into politics that have been openly reported."
Yahya also urged public servants, especially those serving in the ministry and departments and agencies under it to be more responsive, efficient, committed and courageous to transform the public service.
The Outstanding Service Award for 2011 was given to Elizabeth Bugong and Lailah Dollah while 36 persons also received award certificates.
Yahya also saw the handing over of the MS ISO 9001:2008 certificate from Lloyds International representative, Mohd Azhar i Sulaiman to Permanent Secretary, Datuk Ujang Sulani.
Also present were Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry Assistant Minister, Datuk Musbah Jamli, Ministry Deputy Permanent Secretary Jumahat Intang and heads of departments and agencies under the ministry.
