PUTRAJAYA: The 16th Chief Secretary to the Government, Datuk Seri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar clocked in for official duty at Perdana Putra today.
Shamsul, who clocked in at 8.54am today, emphasised the utmost significance of governance in the civil service.
"As emphasised by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who places great importance on governance, it will be one of my key agendas in helming this position.
"Civil servants must remain loyal to the government and serve as a stronghold for the nation," he said after clocking in.
Also present was Public Service director-general Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz.
He also called for all civil servants to work together for the betterment of the country and its people.
"On this occasion, I earnestly appeal and request everyone to work with me to develop our beloved country for the people and the nation.
"I am confident that with the current government machinery, we can provide excellent services to the people under the leadership of the prime minister. I am confident in his leadership, which can steer Malaysia towards greater success."
Shamsul's appointment as the new Chief Secretary was announced by the Prime Minister's Office on Aug 7 as a successor to Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali who retired last Saturday, Aug 10.
He previously served as the director-general of the Public-Private Partnership Unit (UKAS) and also served in the Finance Ministry, the Public Service Department, and state government administration.
Shamsul holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and received exposure from several international institutions, including the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom, and the European Institute of Business Administration.
Shamsul's appointment, with 30 years of experience in public service, was approved by the King of Malaysia.
He also said that the 19th Civil Service Premier Assembly (MAPPA) slated for this Friday, will bring joy to civil servants.
"Insyaallah (god willing), there will be good news for all civil servants. The news will bring joy to all," he said.
It was reported that Anwar would announce the specifics of the salary adjustment mechanism at MAPPA where civil servants will be able to check and calculate their salary hike rates under the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA) following the government's adjustment initiative.