Kota Kinabalu: Minister of Community Development and People’s Wellbeing (KPMKR), Datuk James Ratib, has raised concern over the growing issue of dishonesty without intent in the public sector, stressing the need for immediate action to curb it.
“Although it is not a direct corruption offence, such behaviour still tarnishes the image of the public service, leads to misconduct, and carries legal implications. It can also result in disciplinary action,” he said.
James, who is also the Sugut Assemblyman, made the remarks while officiating the Varsha Integrity Programme held here on Tuesday.
He emphasised that a systematic governance system and clear policies are essential to ensure justice and consistency in disciplinary action against civil servants.
The Varsha Integrity Programme, organised by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, is an initiative of the Sabah State Government through the Sabah Integrity and Governance Division (BIGoNS). It aims to strengthen governance, instil integrity values, and promote a culture of anti-corruption among civil servants.
According to James, the programme reflects the Chief Minister’s commitment to making integrity more than just a slogan — it must become a work culture embedded in every level of public service.
“The people not only want services — they want those services delivered honestly, transparently, fairly, and efficiently.
“Integrity is the foundation of administrative efficiency and the key to building public trust in the government,” he said.
The programme’s theme, “Setting up the Boundaries”, underscores the importance of having clear guidelines in all aspects of administration.
It focuses on four main objectives: strengthening knowledge and practice of integrity in daily life; cultivating civil servants who uphold noble values and avoid misconduct; enhancing governance and service delivery efficiency; and raising awareness among KPMKR employees and related agencies about governance, integrity, and anti-corruption efforts.
James also stressed the importance of expanding such programmes to strengthen morality, mental health, professionalism, and integrity within the civil service.
“A responsible civil servant reflects the overall integrity of a government. With strong integrity, public administration becomes more effective, ultimately boosting public trust,” he added.
“Although it is not a direct corruption offence, such behaviour still tarnishes the image of the public service, leads to misconduct, and carries legal implications. It can also result in disciplinary action,” he said.
James, who is also the Sugut Assemblyman, made the remarks while officiating the Varsha Integrity Programme held here on Tuesday.
He emphasised that a systematic governance system and clear policies are essential to ensure justice and consistency in disciplinary action against civil servants.
The Varsha Integrity Programme, organised by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, is an initiative of the Sabah State Government through the Sabah Integrity and Governance Division (BIGoNS). It aims to strengthen governance, instil integrity values, and promote a culture of anti-corruption among civil servants.
According to James, the programme reflects the Chief Minister’s commitment to making integrity more than just a slogan — it must become a work culture embedded in every level of public service.
“The people not only want services — they want those services delivered honestly, transparently, fairly, and efficiently.
“Integrity is the foundation of administrative efficiency and the key to building public trust in the government,” he said.
The programme’s theme, “Setting up the Boundaries”, underscores the importance of having clear guidelines in all aspects of administration.
It focuses on four main objectives: strengthening knowledge and practice of integrity in daily life; cultivating civil servants who uphold noble values and avoid misconduct; enhancing governance and service delivery efficiency; and raising awareness among KPMKR employees and related agencies about governance, integrity, and anti-corruption efforts.
James also stressed the importance of expanding such programmes to strengthen morality, mental health, professionalism, and integrity within the civil service.
“A responsible civil servant reflects the overall integrity of a government. With strong integrity, public administration becomes more effective, ultimately boosting public trust,” he added.
