KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 8 — Sabah Cuepacs has clarified that while civil servants’ behaviour at private events is a personal matter, they are expected to maintain professionalism and uphold the dignity of their positions at all times.
Cuepacs is the umbrella body representing civil servants and public-sector employees in Malaysia, covering a wide range of unions across federal and state levels.
The statement comes in response to a recent reminder from the national Cuepacs president, Datuk Adnan Mat, regarding the conduct of civil servants at official functions.
Sabah Cuepacs chairman Ajulahin Japin emphasised that the guidance specifically applies to government-organised events, which are bound by the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993.
“Sabah Cuepacs is confident that all official government events have always adhered to proper protocol and have never served alcoholic beverages.
“Therefore, there should be no issue of non-compliance or misconduct arising from such occasions,” Ajulahin said.
On private or non-official functions, he said civil servants retain personal responsibility for their actions.
“Attendance and conduct at private events remain a personal matter, provided civil servants continue to uphold the dignity of their position and avoid actions that could tarnish the image of the public service,” he added.
Ajulahin also stressed the importance of respecting cultural and religious sensitivities when government officers are involved in official programmes.
“We believe all parties, including the private sector, will continue to respect these sensitivities,” he said.
He concluded that maintaining the integrity of the civil service is a shared responsibility.
“We are confident that public servants will continue to carry themselves with honour, discipline, and professionalism both in and outside the workplace,” Ajulahin said.
