Kota Kinabalu: Deputy Chief Minister III cum Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya urged civil servants, especially in technical departments, to act with urgency when addressing public complaints on road conditions and water supply.
He said integrity in public service must be reflected not only in values but also in efficient action and communication.
“Many complaints have been acted upon, but some take longer to resolve. I urge all public servants to embrace a sense of urgency in tackling issues and not wait until matters become critical before taking action,” Shahelmey said.
He was officiating the Varsha Integriti Kementerian Kerja Raya Sabah at Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
This year’s programme focuses on technical officers and reinforces the Ministry’s commitment to embedding integrity into daily operations.
Departments and agencies under the Works Ministry have already developed their Organisational Anti-Corruption Plans (OACP), with monitoring carried out through the Integrity and Governance Unit (IDU).
According to Shahelmey, the anti-corruption plans are not merely documents, but commitments that outline clear steps to ensure every decision is made fairly and transparently.
“In public service, integrity is not just about individual attitudes but also about the systems and processes we use. Efficient resource management is key to ensuring development projects are carried out optimally, without wastage,” he said.
He stressed that transparency in procurement is crucial, as any weaknesses in the system could lead to delays, leakages and abuse of power.
“Procurement must be conducted openly, fairly and in accordance with the law so as not to raise doubts or open opportunities for misconduct,” he said.
Shahelmey said continuous monitoring of projects is equally important, with audits to be carried out regularly on finances, procurement and operations. Tools such as Section 8 Management Assessment Programme (SEMAP) and I-BAP will help detect and prevent irregularities.
“Consistent monitoring ensures plans stay on track, resources are safeguarded and public trust in the administration remains intact,” he said.
On leadership, Shahelmey emphasised that integrity must begin at the top. Leaders should set an example and create a safe, open workplace where staff feel confident to speak up against unethical practices.
“A transparent and secure reporting mechanism must be provided so that staff can report misconduct without fear of retaliation. This culture shows that the organisation values honesty and courage in defending integrity,” he added.
Shahelmey also reminded agencies to strengthen communication with the public, saying that while information spreads instantly in the digital era, the challenge lies in ensuring clarity and accuracy.
“The Government must be the source of valid and precise information. Agencies must diversify their communication methods to reach the people effectively while upholding ethics and never compromising with false or inaccurate information.”He concluded by calling on all officers to make integrity a true work culture, not just an agenda.
“Let us use this programme as the starting point to strengthen our commitment to integrity at every level of the organisation. Together, let’s ensure our ministry is respected and trusted by the people,” Shahelmey said.
