OSAKA: Malaysia’s reforms in public service administration have been crucial in enhancing the country’s global competitiveness and boosting investor confidence, says Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
The Chief Secretary to the Government highlighted that Malaysia has jumped 11 places in the Swiss-based International Institute for Management Development (IMD) World Competitiveness Ranking, moving from 34th to 23rd, thanks to improved governance and efficiency in government administration.
Shamsul Azri, who also leads the Special Task Force on Agency Reform (STAR), noted that the initiative has streamlined 166 processes, saving millions in government expenditure while reducing time and costs for businesses and investors.
He also mentioned the Kuala Lumpur Declaration – Tekad Bersama Perkhidmatan Awam, signed last October by all state leaders, as a significant commitment ensuring that federal, state, and local authorities work collaboratively in transforming the public service.
“With this declaration, state governments and local authorities have committed to joining the federal government in transforming the public service,” he said after officiating the National Day celebration at the Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka on Monday (Sept 8).
Additionally, Shamsul Azri discussed the recently passed Government Service Efficiency Commitment Bill 2025 (Iltizam), which represents a government pledge to continuously improve services for both the public and the business community over the next three years.
Meanwhile, Ellyza Mastura Ahmad Hanipiah, director of the Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, announced that the pavilion has surpassed its RM13bil target in potential trade and investment, achieving over 120% so far.
“We still have a few more weeks with many other ministries and states joining us. We expect this number to rise, and hopefully, by the closing of the Malaysia Pavilion on Oct 13, we will achieve at least about 150%,” she said.
She added that the Malaysia Pavilion, themed “Weaving a Future in Harmony”, serves not only as a platform for soft diplomacy but also as a business hub, with weekly activities including the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) across multiple sectors, particularly renewable energy, advanced electrical and electronics with a focus on semiconductors, halal logistics, biotechnology, digital services, and higher education.
Malaysian ambassador to Japan Datuk Shahril Effendi Abd Ghany pointed out that Malaysia’s strong emphasis on cultural diplomacy was showcased at Expo 2025 Osaka through vibrant performances and people-to-people exchanges.
“The colourful National Day parade and performances at the expo’s National Day Hall successfully reflected the best of Malaysia’s traditions, from cultural and contemporary dances to food, demonstrating the nation’s inclusivity,” he added.
“Malaysia’s participation is not only about politics, commerce, and industry, but also about building connections between people. At the end of the day, it is important to showcase the best of what Malaysia can offer in terms of the resilience of its people and their ability to face future challenges,” he stated.
Expo 2025 Osaka is a six-month event, running from April 13 to Oct 13, on the man-made island of Yumeshima in Osaka.
Themed “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”, the expo features innovative ideas, technologies, and a diverse range of exhibits and events. – Bernama
