ALOR STAR: Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor has reminded civil servants in the state to carry out their duties with integrity and free from any political influence.

He said political interference in executive functions have historically been an issue and will likely persist in the future.

However, he stressed on the obligation of civil servants, at both state and federal levels, to perform their executive functions professionally, with integrity, and accountability.

"The government operates within a long-established system. Political disruptions are inevitable, but civil servants must persevere in serving the people.

"The problem is when certain politicians believe that they have the power to override the established working system, shamelessly interfering with matters that are not under their jurisdiction.

"They are making efforts to teach and influence civil servants to breach ethical standards and rules, this is what happened and it's a dilemma for some of us," he said in a speech during an iftar ceremony with state and federal civil servants here yesterday.

He said that he is confident that the civil servants in Kedah are capable of maintaining such ethical standards.

Sanusi, who is also Perikatan Nasional election director, said he would never allow himself or any politicians, whether from PN or other parties to meddle in the duty of civil servants in Kedah.

"As the head of the (state) government, I will ensure such matters will not be tolerated. We will adhere to the system to ensure effective governance without causing issues for our officers.

"I will not influence you to serve my political interests and I will not allow politicians from my party to disturb the system that had been established," he added.

Commenting further, Sanusi assured civil servants of their rights to choose their own political ideologies for as long as it does not affect their ability to carry out their respective duties professionally.

"After working hours, you are citizens of a democratic country, you are free to make your own choices and you don't necessarily have to support me or my party.

"In fact, if you choose to oppose me, it is your right. We may compete in the free elections process," he added.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/03/1030032/sanusi-reminds-kedah-civil-servants-perform duties-free-political