PUTRAJAYA: Government agencies and statutory bodies must now seek approval from their respective ministers for official overseas assignments, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced.

The decision, made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, changes the previous practice of obtaining approval from the ministry's secretary-general.

Fahmi said this is part of broader efforts to reduce national debt and improve governance and management practices.

"There must be a clear rationale for official overseas assignments. Why is such a large delegation necessary? Could the number be reduced or savings made? These considerations must be taken into account," he said.

Fahmi said this during a press conference following the ministry’s monthly assembly on Friday (Sept 20).

He noted that, as the government strives to reduce national debt, the Prime Minister has also identified the need to reassess various areas, including official overseas travel.

"This review isn't limited to foreign assignments but also includes enhancing project delivery mechanisms to ensure there are no delays, postponements, or abandoned projects.

"The Prime Minister is determined to ensure that every ringgit and every sen of public funds are spent wisely," he said.

Earlier in his speech, Fahmi emphasised that statutory bodies under his ministry, such as the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the National Film Development Corporation (Finas), must now obtain his approval for overseas travel.

"I have instructed the secretary-general (Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa) to liaise with the Chief Secretary to the Government regarding this directive, ensuring governance is meticulous, orderly, and without breach," he added.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/20/official-overseas-assignments-now-require-minister-approval-says-fahmi