This was emphasised by Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Hj Suyoi bin Hj Osman, the Minister of Development, during a get-together ceremony with Division II and above officers under the ministry and its departments yesterday.
Among the public complaints include potholes on the roads, difficulties faced when ongoing applications on road upgrades are not entertained, unsafe road conditions, disruption of water supply with its quality in question due to its cloudy appearance, flood issues, landslides, blocked drainage, the dissatisfaction on late approval for land, building and housing applications as well as disappointments over houses given in the housing scheme due to either the design, area or types of residential homes provided.
Also at the ceremony were Dato Paduka Awang Hj Suhaimi bin Hj Gafar, Permanent Secretary (Technical and Professional) at the Ministry of Development, Awang Hj Muhammad Lutfi bin Abdullah, Permanent Secretary (Administration and Finance) at the ministry, Awang Eddie bin Dato Paduka Hj Sunny, Deputy Permanent Secretary as well as heads of department. Some 400 officers also attended the gathering.
“We must find a solution to each problem reported. As a government agency responsible for ensuring and maintaining the welfare of the people through facilities provided, we will definitely face various challenges along the way and this will also test our commitment levels in executing the duties to the best of our abilities and deliver quality work,” the minister said.
Pehin Dato Seri Setia Awang Hj Suyoi also questioned the ministry’s problem-solving ways. “What initiatives have been taken to resolve predicaments using new approaches that are both innovative and creative or are we simply contented with the normal routine that produces only mediocre results?”
The minister then reminded all officers and staff to carry out their duties and responsibilities professionally and meticulously.
“We must maintain the values of a government officer. One must be honest, trustworthy and courteous whilst complying with the regulations and maintain good behaviour as described in the General Order and Government Circulars.
“I also believe that our achievements in the previous year will serve as a ‘benchmark’ and further encourage us to strive harder to garner more successes in the future. In 2012, the ministry productively carried out several projects that had a major impact on the people’s daily lives. This was achieved through proper teamwork, professionalism amongst staff and the expertise of the personnel.
“However, we should not be complacent with such achievements alone but instead take initiatives to further improve the ministry whilst identifying weaknesses and working on those issues for a brighter and better tomorrow”
Among the aims of the gathering were for new officers to meet Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Suyoi. The minister also listened to grievances faced by long-service personnel in their work.