THE government remains committed to gradually reducing its involvement in economic activities, particularly in areas where it competes with the private sector.
In this respect, the privatisation agreement relates to the development of the Malaysia External Trade Development (Matrade) Centre which is expected to be completed by 2014, and the construction of six Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) campuses scheduled to be completed in 2013.
According to the 2010/2011 Economic Report, to intensify Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Khazanah Nasional Berhad collaborated with several foreign entities, including Marlborough College Overseas Limited, Raffles Education Corporation and Netherlands Maritime Institute of Technology.
A site in Serdang, Selangor also has been identified to set up a medical school and hospital, in collaboration with world-renowned teaching, research and medical institution John Hopkins University, which would become a medical research hub for the region.
The report also stated that the government would further stress on the efficient delivery of public service to create a conducive environment for the private sector.
“The public sector needs to undergo a mindset change and respond to the higher expectation of the rakyat. Therefore, government agencies will be systematically rationalised and strengthened to improve productivity,” the report said.
It added that the adoption of e-Government applications would be enhanced, while cloud computing for shared ICT services would be initiated to increase efficiency and reduce cost.
“As part of efforts to increase competency of public sector employees, measures will be introduced to encourage support staff to upgrade skills and knowledge and enhance career prospects.
“The appraisal system will be reviewed to better align performance with rewards and career development. The performance of ambassadors and those in missions abroad will be further improved through the implementation of specific KPIs,” the report said.
The public sector financial management will be improved through various measures, including fiscal reforms and streamlining functional areas across ministries. — Bernama