A DAP MP has called for the government to put an end to the practice of rehiring retired officials for senior positions, saying such a practice can discourage or dampen the enthusiasm of aspiring young officials or talented candidates from joining the government sector.
Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng said this in light of Datuk Ramlan Harun’s appointment as the new Election Commission (EC) chairman as announced by Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali on Wednesday (June 26).
The former Rural and Regional Development Ministry secretary-general replaces Tan Sri Abdul Ghani Salleh who retired on May 9.
“Ramlan, who retired on May 30, brings valuable insights and administrative skills to the role. However, appointing a retired official to such a pivotal position may not fully address the need for a fresh and forward-thinking approach to electoral governance,” Lim noted in a statement on Thursday (June 27).
He reckoned that in today’s Malaysian political landscape which is characterised by a desire for transparency, accountability and reform, appointing a serving official or an expert from a local university could be a more suitable policy.
“Such individuals would bring current, cutting-edge knowledge and a potentially less politicised perspective to the role,” he remarked.
“Firstly, the practice of rehiring retired officials to senior positions can discourage or dampen the enthusiasm of aspiring young officials or talented candidates from joining the government sector.
“Young professionals might perceive limited career progression opportunities if top positions are frequently filled by retirees, leading to a potential brain drain.”
Lim further noted that an expert from a local university could inject much-needed academic rigour and independent analysis into the EC’s operations, adding that their involvement could help fortify the EC’s reputation as an impartial body committed to upholding democratic principles.
“Moreover, such a move would align with the broader aspirations of Malaysian society for more inclusive and merit-based appointments in public service,” he opined.
“It would signal a commitment to drawing on the best and brightest minds in the country to tackle the complex issues surrounding electoral integrity and public trust.
“Encouraging a new generation of leaders and experts in senior roles could foster a more dynamic and progressive approach to governance, attracting talented individuals to the public sector and ensuring the government benefits from diverse viewpoints and the latest expertise.”
Ramlan, 60, had been in the public service for 28 years, serving several ministries and departments.
He holds a master’s degree in land resource management from Universiti Putra Malaysia, and a bachelor’s degree in housing and building planning from Universiti Sains Malaysia.
He also has a diploma in public administration from the National Institute of Public Administration. – June 27, 2024
Main pic credit: Astro Awani
