Integrity units in ministries can now investigate civil servants for unethical behaviour, with severe penalties including dismissal for those found guilty.
PUTRAJAYA: The Public Service Department has clarified that Integrity Units across all ministries and departments can initiate internal probes against civil servants suspected of unethical or immoral conduct.
This action can proceed when there is sufficient information and evidence to support an investigation.
PSD director-general Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz stated that firm action, including dismissal or demotion, may be taken if officers are found guilty under the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993.
“The PSD takes a serious view of any criminal misconduct or breach of discipline involving civil servants,” he said in a statement.
He emphasised that this includes involvement in immoral activities or ‘unnatural relationships’.
Any proven behaviour that tarnishes the civil service’s reputation constitutes a serious breach of integrity and conduct.
Wan Ahmad Dahlan added that the PSD firmly adheres to the principle of the rule of law.
Any action taken by authorities like the police or religious enforcement agencies will be handed over to them for a full investigation.
He highlighted that the government has clear guidelines for addressing disciplinary issues.
All civil servants are subject to the regulations, specifically a clause stating no officer shall behave in a manner that brings the service into disrepute.
Department heads are advised to closely monitor and act on any reports or complaints of misconduct.
Such behaviour can significantly impact government administration and erode public trust.
To prevent future incidents, department heads have been instructed to monitor the lifestyle and conduct of officers under their supervision.
The promotion of moral values through Integrity Units must also be strengthened.
This includes conducting regular psychological and character assessments.
Talks or courses focusing on officer character development and healthy lifestyles are recommended across all ministries.
The public is encouraged to report any civil servant misconduct through the official Public Complaints Management System.
This allows for prompt action to be taken.
The statement follows a recent police raid at a health club in Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur.
A total of 17 civil servants were among 208 individuals detained on suspicion of involvement in immoral activities.
