THINK OUT OF THE BOX, MINISTER TELLS CIVIL SERVANTS

PETALING JAYA (Malaysia), April 29 (Bernama) -- Civil servants must be able to make a paradigm shift by integrating four basic values and providing services based on the concept of thinking outside the box, said Housing and Local Government Minister Kong Cho Ha.

He said the four core values were cultivating creativity and innovation,
emphasising speedy actions and decision making, value for money and value of
integrity.

"The four basic values are the elements highlighted by the prime minister to
civil servants to ensure the success of the government's transformation agenda,"
he said when presenting the ministry's outstanding awards for 2009 to 190
employees here Wednesday night.

He said assimilating creativity and innovation meant that civil servants
need to think critically and constructively in discharging their
responsibilities and trust through extraordinary solutions.

Kong said speedy actions and decision making would enhance the people's
confidence in the government.

"Apart from that, a sense of urgency will reduce costs to customers and
enhance competitiveness," he said.

In the context of value for money, he said civil servants need to find more
effective methods by giving emphasis on cost-saving measures and quality
service.

He said the three core values would not be complete without the support of
the value of integrity.

"Civil servants should avoid bad practices like wasteful habits and
irregularities as every single expenditure must generate maximum return to the
government and the people," he said.

-- BERNAMA