IMMORAL ACTIVITIES: INTEGRITY UNITS MAY PROCEED WITH INTERNAL PROBES – PSD

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 3 (Bernama) -- The Public Service Department (PSD) has stressed that Integrity Units in every ministry and department may proceed with internal investigations against civil servants suspected of unethical or immoral conduct, provided there is sufficient information and evidence to support such investigations.

In a statement today, PSD director-general Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz said firm action, including dismissal or demotion, may be taken if the officers concerned are found guilty under the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993 [P.U.(A) 395/1993].

“The PSD takes a serious view of any criminal misconduct or breach of discipline involving civil servants. This includes involvement in immoral activities or ‘unnatural relationships’.

“Any proven behaviour that tarnishes the reputation of the civil service constitutes a serious breach of integrity and conduct,” he said.

He said the PSD adheres firmly to the principle of the rule of law, and any action taken by authorities such as the Royal Malaysia Police or religious enforcement agencies will be handed over to them for a full and detailed investigation.

Wan Ahmad Dahlan said the government has clear guidelines for addressing disciplinary issues among civil servants, stressing that all civil servants are subject to the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993 [P.U.(A) 395/1993], specifically paragraph 4(2)(d), which states that no officer shall behave in a manner that brings the civil service into disrepute.

He said department heads are advised to closely monitor and act on any reports or complaints of misconduct, as such behaviour can have a significant negative impact on government administration, potentially eroding public trust, spreading negative perceptions, and undermining the authority and credibility of the officers who carry out their duties.

In this regard, to prevent similar incidents in the future, Wan Ahmad Dahlan said department heads have been instructed to monitor the lifestyle and conduct of the officers under their supervision.

He said the promotion of moral values through the Integrity Units in every ministry and department must be strengthened, including regular psychological and character assessments.

“In addition, talks or courses focusing on the development of officers’ character and healthy lifestyles are recommended to be implemented across all ministries and departments.

“The public is also encouraged to continue acting as the government’s ‘eyes and ears’ by reporting any civil servant misconduct through the official Public Complaints Management System (SISPAA), so that prompt action can be taken,” he said.

Last Friday, 17 civil servants were among 208 individuals detained by police during a raid at a health club in Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur, suspected of hosting immoral activities.

-- BERNAMA