KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA Oct 7, 2025 – Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that the country’s public administration system must dare to break out of the “cocoon of old regulations” and make major shifts to meet the demands of an increasingly complex and challenging era, during the official opening of the ASEAN Conference: Public Service Ready to Face the Future today.
In his opening speech here, Anwar stressed the need for the public service to become more agile, innovative, and bold in trying new approaches that are relevant and responsive to the current era driven by technology, climate change, and public demands for transparency.
“The true strength of the public service lies not only in procedural compliance, but also in the ability to adapt, act swiftly, and effectively in facing new challenges,” he said, while reminding that the success of government institutions depends on strong, sustainable systems and structures capable of adapting to changing times.
He also called on political and public service leaders to have a clear moral stance and the courage to address sensitive issues, including in the global context such as the recent discussions on the Gaza reconciliation proposal with the Conference of Rulers.
The conference, held under the auspices of the Public Service Department (JPA), aims to shape the future of regional public services through discussions on digital transformation and adaptation to contemporary challenges. It also aligns with Malaysia’s preparations to host the 47th ASEAN Summit next year, where Anwar has discussed recent developments with the Conference of Rulers.
Anwar, who has led the Unity Government since November 2022, has often emphasized administrative reforms to enhance efficiency and accountability, in line with the vision of Budget 2026 currently being prepared.