KUCHING: Loyalty to an organisation should never be used as a reason to conceal its weaknesses, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Instead, he said, genuine loyalty requires leaders and employees to be courageous.
“Loyalty to an organisation does not mean hiding its weaknesses. It means having the courage to uphold the truth, correct weaknesses and strengthen the service delivery system for the benefit of the people,” he said.
He said this when officiating at the Sarawak Integrity Day 2026 celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today.
Abang Johari said leaders must establish a working environment in which views, criticism and reports could be raised responsibly and based on facts.
He said this forms part of the openness, professionalism and accountability required from leaders committed to building a high-performing public service.
He stressed that the culture of an organisation was heavily influenced by the values, conduct and example demonstrated by its leaders.
“As such, heads of departments are responsible not only for ensuring compliance with policies and regulations, but also for setting the right example through their decisions, exercise of authority and management of the trust placed in them.
“Integrity must begin with the leadership before it can become a culture practised by everyone in the organisation,” he said.
Abang Johari said administrative affairs must be managed fairly, transparently and responsibly, while any identified shortcomings must be addressed through effective corrective measures and continuous monitoring.
He also called on members of the Sarawak civil service to build a work culture that was prepared to correct weaknesses, remained open to different views, and consistently placed the interests of the people first.
“Such efforts are necessary to maintain and strengthen public confidence in government services.
“Therefore, the Sarawak civil service must continue to carry out the responsibilities entrusted with efficiency, honesty and a strong sense of responsibility,” he said.
Abang Johari said integrity was not something practised only when a person was being observed.
He said responsibility for building a Sarawak that was trusted and respected rested with everyone, including leaders, civil servants, businesspeople, community leaders, educators, students and members of the public.
“Every role, regardless of how small, could affect an organisation, community and Sarawak as a whole.
“As such, integrity must be reflected in every policy, decision and action to safeguard public trust and ensure that the prosperity being built today could be passed on to future generations,” he added.
