Public Service Department’s (JPA) Director-General Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz, in a circular, has reminded civil servants not to make any unauthorised statements that could affect Government policies, plans or decisions.
He added that any civil servants who make such statements may face disciplinary actions, including dismissal.
Civil servants are barred from making any statements that could undermine the Government
Tan Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz
According to Sinar Harian, Wan Ahmad Dahlan reminded civil servants that they are barred from making unauthorised statements, whether verbally or in writing, under Subregulation 19(1) of the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993 [P.U. (A) 395/1993].
The circular, dated 19 June 2025, added that the widespread use of social media has changed the communications landscape and information delivery across public services.
Moreover, the JPA Director-General asserted that civil servants are barred from making any public statements that could embarrass or tarnish the Government’s name. They are also barred from circulating any commentaries made by themselves or others.
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Civil servants who violate the guidelines may be fired
Wan Ahmad Dahlan revealed that despite the guidelines, there are still many disciplinary violations among civil servants on the matter.
Hence, department heads are urged to advise public personnel to be prudent in making any statements, commentaries or comments, as well as not to spread information that is false, seditious, provocative or unverified.
If a civil servant is found to have committed such an offence, they may face disciplinary actions, including dismissal, as per the relevant regulations.
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So, what do you guys think of the circular? Do share your thoughts with us in the comments.
