KUALA LUMPUR: The call by the Chief Secretary to the Government for a review of outdated rules and procedures is a crucial step toward enhancing integrity and accountability within the civil service, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.

These archaic policies and standard operating procedures could potentially lead to abuse of power and allow room for malpractice and graft, said Lee, who is a member of the Malaysia Integrity Institute.

“Outdated regulations can also hinder the civil servant’s ability to respond to modern governance challenges effectively.

“A thorough review will allow for the identification of obsolete practices and create opportunities to adapt new regulations that are better suited in the fast-changing work and social environment,” he said when contacted yesterday.

Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, whose appointment as Chief Secretary to the Government took effect last month, had told secretaries general, state secretaries and department heads to review outdated policies and practices at their workplace.

He was quoted in news reports last week as saying that rules and policies should be improved so that there would be transparency, accountability and competency.

Lee said that a comprehensive review could result in stronger oversight mechanisms, contributing to better management of public resources and cutting down on unnecessary expenditure.

“I feel that the review process should also involve other stakeholders including civil society organisations and citizens for which we can create a social media platform,” he said.

Lee also called for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve service delivery of government agencies.

“This could significantly enhance efficiency while reducing reliance on manpower.

“AI can automate repetitive administrative tasks such as data entry, processing applications and managing records.

“This would allow civil servants to focus on more complex and strategic work.

“AI can analyse large datasets quickly and accurately, and provide insights that assist in decision-making, thus enhancing the quality of public services.”

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/09/tackling-hurdles-in-governance-with-fresh-eyes-on-old-practices