BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

THE minister of culture, youth and sports has called on heads of departments to show their capability in increasing work productivity, and not just not use their position to manage subordinates.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Perkerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Hj Hazair Hj Abdullah said heads of departments and sections should not only give instructions, but also set an example for others to resolve issues.

“As a head, you should not only be making popular decisions, but also be prepared to make unpopular decisions toward your staff,” he said.

The minister, speaking during an appreciation ceremony for retired staff yesterday, said heads of departments must be able to contribute to work improvements and the organisation’s achievements.

He went on to say that civil servants need to continuously reflect their work performance and adapt to the changing work environment to meet increasing public expectations.

The ministry’s development lies on the workforce, and their commitment and dedication, he said.

“We must always make assessments and changes toward our work approaches and strategies, and not just work as if it’s business as usual,” YB Pehin Dato Hj Hazair continued.

He said public expectations continue to rise, while work environments and technologies continue to change, thus the importance of civil servants not resting on their laurels.

A total of 26 Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) retired staff were awarded during the ceremony.

The recipients comprise five workers from the Department of MCYS, six workers from Language and Literature Bureau, six from Youth and Sports Department, seven from Museums Department and two from Department of Community Department.

Speaking on the sidelines of the ceremony at the National Indoor Stadium, one of the retired staff said can still contribute to the community even after she retires.

“Every now and then I submit my Malay literature writings to the Language and Literature Bureau,” said Shaharah Dato Paduka Hj Abd Wahab, a writer who retired two years ago.

Also present at the ceremony were Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Datin Paduka Hjh Adina Othman and Permanent Secretary Dato Paduka Dr Hj Affendy Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Hj Abidin.

The Brunei Times