UKM bars staff from commenting on govt policy

(FMT) : Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia has issued a circular barring its staff from making public statements, especially those that disparage the government or highlight weaknesses in its policies and decisions.

A copy of the circular dated Oct 8 and issued by Zainudin Daud, who is performing the duties of the university’s registrar, is making rounds on social media.

A source from the university confirmed the authenticity of the circular and said UKM’s vice-chancellor would be issuing a statement soon.

According to the circular, chief secretary to the government Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar had reminded all public servants that they were not authorised to make any public statement unless specifically authorised to do so.

“Civil servants, including officers at statutory bodies, are not permitted, whether orally or in writing or in any other manner, from issuing any public statement that may impair the government’s policies and programmes,” it said.

The circular also prevents the staff from issuing statements that embarrass the government or statutory bodies or tarnish their image.

“(Civil servants are prohibited) from commenting on the weaknesses of any policy, plan or decision made by the government or any statutory body,” it said.

Those who flout the rule risk disciplinary action.

Source : Freemalaysiatoday