Public Service Department director-general says universities are crucial for developing ethical leaders and accountable public servants, urging students to avoid academic shortcuts.
SINTOK: Institutions of higher learning must uphold integrity as a core value to reinforce their role in developing accountable public servants, said Public Service Department director-general Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz.
He said universities serve not just as centres of learning, but also as a foundation for cultivating leadership and ethical values among graduates.
“University administrators carry significant responsibilities in managing human resources, finances, assets and other critical resources, and it is here that integrity and accountability are truly tested,” he said.
He made the remarks while speaking at the National Governance Lecture Programme at Universiti Utara Malaysia.
Wan Ahmad Dahlan highlighted lecturers as character builders, value-driven agents of change, and exemplars in teaching, research and administration.
He also advised students to cultivate a culture of integrity and accountability, which are key criteria for employers, particularly for those aiming to join the public sector.
“Students should steer clear of shortcuts in their studies, use artificial intelligence responsibly, and uphold transparency and accountability,” he said.
He noted that many students today rely heavily on tools like ChatGPT, DeepSeek and Gemini.
These technologies can be beneficial when used correctly, but become harmful if they foster complete dependence without personal effort.
He added that academics’ continued research supports a public service that is ethical, accountable, dynamic, efficient and effective.
