KUCHING: The Sarawak government is considering reforms to make the public service more competitive, transparent, and attractive to young Sarawakians
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg acknowledged that the civil service operates under general orders, but stressed the need for a system that appeals to the younger generation and ensures the state’s administration remains dynamic and effective.
“The civil service is subject to general orders. But for a modern state, we need to encourage young people to join and stay, and that means making the system more competitive and attractive,” he said this during the townhall session in conjunction with the ninth anniversary of the state administration at Hikmah Exchange here on Tuesday (Jan 13).
The Premier explained that reforms under consideration include reviewing career pathways, remuneration packages, incentives, and performance management to better align the public service with the expectations of young professionals.
He said such reforms are necessary to retain talent in Sarawak, as the private sector often offers higher pay and more flexible career opportunities.
“Our economy must be driven by the private sector. That is where wages are higher, and the opportunities for growth are greater,” Abang Johari said.
As part of broader structural reforms, the Premier highlighted the role of state-owned enterprises (SOEs), which are government-owned but run using private-sector management practices. These include Sarawak Energy, Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros), and various port operations.
He said SOEs are managed on a performance-based model, where underperformers can be replaced quickly, and high performers can earn greater rewards, including bonuses beyond standard government limits.
“Government-owned companies run commercially allow us to set dividend targets. If the dividend is low, it is a sign that management needs to improve. If it is high, we reward performance,” Abang Johari explained.
The Premier likened the approach to professional sports, saying leaders in both public and private sectors should be assessed based on results rather than tenure. Underperformers should step aside voluntarily, allowing younger generations to take the lead while senior leaders provide guidance.
Abang Johari also emphasized that Sarawak’s progress is closely linked to Malaysia’s overall development. A thriving state attracts investors, who contribute taxes to the federal government, ultimately benefiting the nation as a whole.
“If Sarawak prospers, Malaysia also prospers. Our success is not just for Sarawak, but for the country,” he said, noting that many Sarawakians have ties to other states, and that the state’s growth is part of a larger national framework.
He concluded by stressing the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors to ensure sustainable growth, a competitive workforce, and opportunities for the next generation to lead Sarawak into the future.
