KOTA SAMARAHAN: Civil servants in the country have been urged to continue upholding the “no gifts policy” at their respective departments and agencies, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
Nancy, who is also Batang Sadong Member of Parliament, also proposed that the policy be extended to gifts or tokens of appreciation given to VIP guests during ceremonies organised by government departments and agencies.
Such a move, said Nancy, will not only help intensify efforts to boost integrity within governance but also nurture a habit of prudent spending.
“There should not be a problem if the gift is given in the form of books or food. However, my concern is when so much allocations go into these gifts.
“I believe that the gifts were given in good faith and sincerity but some outsiders may question the source of funds,” said Nancy in her speech during the Sarawak level Anti-Corruption Day here today.
Speaking in her personal capacity as a member of the Federal Cabinet, Nancy gave her assurance that it would not be awkward if the minister or VIP guest did not receive any gift or tokens of appreciation for attending ceremonies.
“There is nothing awkward about it. We appreciate the gifts but then I would be more relieved if I left the ceremony empty-handed because the money (used for the gift) can be used for other things,” she said.
She also proposed that new civil servants enrolments include courses and seminars to educate and create awareness on the detrimental effects of corruption to the nation.
This, she said, would ensure that matters deemed as a “thin line” among civil service will not be overlooked and that the aim of enhancing integrity in government departments could be achieved.