KUALA LUMPUR: Civil servants are sharing their hopes and fears for the much anticipated announcement of a smaller cabinet under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
University lecturer Dr Nirwandy Mat Noor said having a smaller cabinet would shore up public's trust and perception towards Anwar's unity government since it was one of his pledges.
"Also, the chosen ministers must have the skills to hold 'dual-portfolios'."
He, however, expressed his concern over the quality of the appointed ministers because helming more than one ministerial portfolio would require exceptional leadership qualities.
Another civil servant who wanted to be known as Nazmi expressed his hope that the savings derived from having a smaller cabinet could be directed to the needy.
"Having a smaller cabinet is the right call, so much so when the economy is expected to be 'rough' (next year)."
Nazmi also looked forward to faster response during disasters as "less layers" of approvals would be needed to deal with.
"The country is facing environmental disasters such as floods. By having fewer ministers around, it does help during times of crisis where they can work and communicate better between ministries.
"There will be less time spent to play the blame game among ministries and focus more on helping people affected by disasters."
He, however, had his concerns, too, because fewer ministers would mean the person helming the post could be stretched thin when making decisions on key matters.
"It can be a double-edged sword situation here. But this can be resolved by assigning one minister for a key portfolio without burdening the minister with other portfolios."
A civil servant who wished to remain anonymous said a smaller cabinet would make a mark on corruption issues in the country, especially those involving politicians.
"We all have heard before that a large cabinet is prone to systemic corruption as redundant ministries are created to cater to those who lent support to the government of the day.
"Hence, with the expected smaller cabinet, I hope the issues with regard to redundant ministries and siphoning of public funds will be addressed once and for all.
"The money used to sustain the unnecessary ministries can be put to good use such as upgrading public needs and amenities.
"I can see the benefits of having a smaller cabinet. But, I do have my fears that if it is too small, I can foresee some ministries will be merged and some will cease to exist."
She also said key ministries, including defence and education, must be retained and should not be messed with.
Anwar, who was sworn in as Malaysia's 10th prime minister on Nov 24, had announced that the unity government would see a smaller cabinet composition.
The cabinet under the leadership of former prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri had previously comprised 31 ministers and 38 deputies.
Muhyiddin's cabinet, meanwhile, consisted of 31 ministers and an equal number of deputy ministers.