Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching has reminded government officials across all levels to avoid using inappropriate language and stay away from topics concerning race, religion and royalty. Her statement came after scrutiny fell on newly appointed Government Communication Department (J-Kom) director-general Mohd Hishyamuddin Ghazali over his past remarks.
The call serves as a broader reminder for the civil service to exercise caution in their public communications and remarks. Officials are expected to uphold professionalism and sensitivity when addressing matters that could be contentious or divisive among the Malaysian public.
Teo's intervention highlights the importance of maintaining decorum within government ranks, particularly among senior figures whose words carry considerable weight and influence. The deputy minister emphasised that such standards apply uniformly across the administration.
The controversy surrounding the J-Kom chief has drawn attention to the responsibility government spokespersons bear in representing the nation's diverse population. Maintaining these standards is essential for preserving public trust and national harmony in Malaysia's multicultural context.
