KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has outlined plans to strengthen the state’s economy through a professional, corporate-style approach to government services.
He said a joint study with the World Bank had recommended streamlining the civil service to reduce bureaucracy while focusing on quality output and skilled manpower.
“When managed properly, government services under Government-Linked Company (GLC) can operate like the private sector, accountable for their own outcomes while ensuring transparency and efficiency,” he said at the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) Appreciation and Excellence Service Awards ceremony last night.
Abang Johari said the model could apply to agencies like SFC, which, if structured under a services industry framework, could operate more efficiently with less bureaucracy.
“If it is of high quality, it can operate like the private sector, not bound by government terms of service, but accountable for its own results. Ultimately, what matters is the bottom line,” he said.
Abang Johari said that with managers who know how to run operations transparently, the value of Sarawak’s resources could be further enhanced.
The Premier emphasised that accountability and transparent management are central to improving economic performance and reinforcing Sarawak’s position as a hub for sustainable development.
