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THE nation’s work-from-home policy for civil servants has generated savings of RM4.22 million in RON95 fuel subsidies, equivalent to 2.14 million litres of petrol, since the initiative was introduced on 15 April, according to Chief Secretary to the Government Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
The latest figures, recorded up to 25 May, underscore the government’s attempt to curb operational costs and ease the growing financial strain caused by global supply disruptions and rising subsidy commitments.
Speaking during the launch of the Encouraging, Responsibility, Accountability, Trustworthiness (ERAT) Appreciation Ceremony, Shamsul Azri stressed that the work-from-home arrangement was introduced as an economic measure rather than a relaxation of duties for the civil service.
“Let me remind everyone once again, working from home does not mean ‘Lie Down, Sit Back and Rest’. It is intended to control petrol consumption, which is why the government approved the initiative beginning 15 April,” he said.
“Although subsidy pressures have risen sharply, the government will ensure that services to the people are not affected.”
The remarks mark a significant increase from figures released on 30 April, when the government reported savings of RM1.9 million in RON95 subsidies, equivalent to 979,632 litres of fuel, within the first 10 days of implementation involving approximately 200,000 civil servants.
Shamsul Azri said department heads must now ensure the policy is implemented effectively without compromising public service delivery, urging senior officials to adopt what he described as the T.E.G.A.S approach — swift action, empathy, clear ideas, adaptability and effective strategy.
“I want to remind every head of department to practise the TEGAS concept as we confront the current crisis,” he said.
The country’s top civil servant also called on government employees to uphold the values encapsulated in the acronym M.A.L.A.Y.S.I.A — friendliness, fairness, nobility, trustworthiness, confidence, loyalty, reform and wisdom — when dealing with members of the public regardless of social standing.
“Do not differentiate treatment based on position. When dignitaries arrive, we greet them with bright smiles, but when a cleaner comes to deal with government matters, do we treat them the same way we treat the dignitaries?” he asked.
Shamsul Azri further reminded civil servants that public office was a responsibility entrusted to them, not a position for personal pride or privilege. - May 26, 2026
