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THE credibility of Malaysia’s civil service has come under scrutiny in Parliament today, following opposition criticism of the content of the Malaysia-United States Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART), prompting strong defence from both the opposition and parliamentary authorities.
Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin emphasised that civil servants themselves were not being questioned, but rather the accountability of ministers agreeing to specific provisions in the trade pact.
“What we are questioning is you as a Minister who agreed with the article we presented. To become agitated as if we are ungrateful to civil servants—what is this?” he said, recalling his own experience as a former Deputy Foreign Minister navigating different time zones while working with civil servants.
“In eight days, seven countries I visited to discuss and meet foreign leaders. That is why we know they work,” he added.
The comments were made in response to Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz’s remarks that certain Members of Parliament had allegedly disparaged civil servants, including the Chief Secretary to the Government, during discussions on the Malaysia-US trade agreement.
“I am disappointed when some in this House mock the efforts of our negotiating team. I understand politically motivated attacks, but do not belittle the work and sacrifices of civil servants who ensure the sovereignty of the nation,” Tengku Zafrul said.
Earlier, Speaker of the House Tan Sri Johari Abdul issued a stern reminder to MPs not to demean civil servants during debates.
“Members of Parliament may critique Ministers or Deputy Ministers, but civil servants cannot be targeted. They are merely executing government policies and directives,” he said.
He warned that appropriate action would be taken against any MP who violated parliamentary rules and ethics, urging members to focus on policy issues rather than criticising officials. - October 29, 2025