The Malaysian Civil Defense Force (APM) has issued a stark warning to public servants against engaging in extramarital affairs to uphold morality and discipline within the public service.
Breach of Public Service Orders
As per their recent Instagram post, APM states that such actions not only constitute a disciplinary breach but could also lead to imprisonment or fines under the 1933 Public Service Orders and Section 498 of the Criminal Code.
Section 498 of the Criminal Code deals with the enticement, abduction, and restraint of another person’s wife and can result in a jail term of up to two years or a fine, or both.
This warning holds particular gravity for Muslim civil servants, for whom adultery represents not only a legal infraction but also a violation of Islamic teachings.
Share guidelines for public servant
Additionally, the APM has shared guidelines on maintaining moral boundaries in the workplace, advising against lecherous behavior towards women and the avoidance of secret meetings (Khalwat).
Civil servants are required to practice courteous Social Etiquette among:
a) the same gender
b) different genders
This Social Etiquette encompasses 3 aspects, namely:
- Being serious during meetings
- Restraining glances
- Avoiding seclusion
“This Social Etiquette can serve as the foundation for workplace etiquette to prevent sexual harassment, which is challenging and difficult to manage (if it occurs),” it wrote.
