No compromise for civil servants involved in corruption - PSC Chairman

GEORGE TOWN: The Public Service Commission (PSC) will never compromise on corruption and violation of laws involving civil servants, said its chairman Tan Sri Zainal Rahim Seman.

He said the PSC views seriously civil servants' involvement in corruption cases although the amount was small.

"Actually, during the selection process (for appointments), candidates have provided us with complete personal information and they were strictly screened to ensure they are free from crime and corruption, have integrity and others.

"When they are appointed, they are required to attend various courses which emphasise on many aspects pertaining to work and identity, including on corruption and abuse of power. So, they should already be aware of it. Civil servants must serve with honesty and sincerity," he told Bernama.

He was commenting on the arrest made by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) on 44 individuals including 32 Road Transport Department officers, a traffic cop and a former traffic cop for allegedly involved in protecting errant lorry drivers in several states.

Zainal Rahim said the PSC would take stern action including termination of service on civil servants who are involved in crime, corruption as well as serious and repeated misconducts.

He said civil servants who were entrusted with authorities and responsibilities have to act with transparency by adhering to the stipulated law processes or procedures.

He also stressed the need to preserve integrity throughout one's tenure so as not to get involved with irresponsible acts.

"In other words, integrity will protect you from corruption and abuse of power," he added.

Zainal Rahim said the government has implemented various initiatives and efforts to strengthen civil servants' integrity such as the formulation of the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993, the launch of the National Integrity Plan and setting up of an integrity unit at every public agency, but civil servants were still involved in corruption.

"They have to understand their responsibilities and know that if they commit an offence, they will face disciplinary action including being dismissed," he said.

-- BERNAMA