KUALA LUMPUR: The recent secretaries-general reshuffle must be backed by more comprehensive institutional reforms, says Malaysia Corruption Watch (MCW).
"(This includes) the introduction of more transparent monitoring and performance evaluation mechanisms to ensure that civil servants are held accountable for their actions," the non-governmental organisation said in a statement.
On Sept 4, Chief Secretary to the Government Datuk Seri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar announced a major reshuffle affecting seven ministries, aiming to boost efficiency and effectiveness in the public sector.
MCW said the public perception of the existence of "Little Napoleon" or "cartel" cells within the civil service has long tarnished the image of the civil service and the move might bring about positive change.
"If this reshuffle is carried out with a focus on eliminating the culture of abuse of power, unhealthy influence and the formation of interest groups (cartels), it has the potential to change this perception," said the watchdog.
Nevertheless, MCW believed that such structural changes alone were insufficient.
"Legal enforcement reform, stricter monitoring and the adoption of values of integrity across all levels of the civil service are also needed."