KUCHING: The implementation of public sector policies and the management of large-scale funds require a high level of accountability among civil servants, said Minister for Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development, Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom.
He stressed that this is particularly crucial when it comes to managing subsidies, grants, and development projects.
“Every civil servant, from planners to implementers, holds the responsibility to ensure that decisions are made with honesty and integrity.
“Integrity must be embedded at all levels – not only among department heads but across all officers, regardless of their roles or ranks,” he said during the launch of the Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Integrity & Psychology Day 2025 held here on Tuesday.
This year’s celebration, themed ‘Integrity Anchored, Psychology Strengthened‘, highlights the importance of nurturing public servants who are not only competent but also grounded in values and emotional well-being.
Dr Rundi also emphasised the importance of mental well-being as a key factor in building a resilient and effective government organisation.
“Psychology is not just about emotions. It includes how one thinks, makes decisions, and interacts in the workplace.
“A solid understanding of psychological aspects at all levels, including leadership, is essential in fostering an empathetic team and a supportive work culture,” he added.
He noted that officers with sound mental health tend to be more focused, efficient, and accountable.
“These are the attributes we aspire to see in today’s civil service, not only professionalism, but also emotional balance and value-driven service,” he said.
