Anwar Apologises to Civil Servants Over Firm Tone

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has apologised to civil servants if his recent remarks were perceived as overly harsh, stressing that his intent was to push for higher standards and accountability across the public sector. He acknowledged concerns over tone while reiterating the need for urgency in delivering reforms and improving service efficiency.

PM Clarifies Tough Messaging to Drive Public Sector Reform

Anwar said Malaysia’s reform agenda requires discipline and execution, particularly in restoring trust in government institutions. He emphasised that civil servants remain central to national development and should not feel demoralised by calls for stricter performance.

He added that constructive criticism is necessary to strengthen governance, not undermine morale. The government, he said, will continue balancing firmness with support to ensure public sector delivery improves without eroding confidence among its workforce.

Civil Servants

Anwar softens tone but keeps reform pressure on civil service.

Meanwhile, Fahmi Fadzil, the Communications Minister said no directive had been issued by Anwar, stressing that the message was aimed at preserving unity within the federal coalition government throughout the state election campaign.

He says Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s recent warning to ministers and deputy ministers campaigning in the Negri Sembilan election was intended as a reminder to uphold discipline and professionalism, not an instruction for anyone to resign.

“So far, there has been no instruction from the Prime Minister. It was merely a reminder for everyone serving in the unity government to maintain the spirit of unity,” he told reporters when met at Felda Palong 2 here on Monday (July 20).

He said Anwar had urged ministers, deputy ministers and federal office holders to conduct themselves with discipline and professionalism while campaigning.

“The Prime Minister views the democratic process as one that naturally allows for differences in opinion and views. 

“Even in previous state elections, parties contested separately, but what he stressed is that those serving in positions within the unity government must continue to respect one another. That is important,” he said.

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