Stop hiring retired officials to senior positions, DAP MP tells govt

Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng has urged the government to stop hiring retired government officials to senior positions and prioritise serving young professionals instead.

The DAP lawmaker was commenting on the appointment of former Rural and Regional Development Ministry secretary-general Ramlan Harun as the Election Commission (EC) chairperson.

According to Lim, appointing Ramlan, who has an impressive track record as a senior government official, may not be the best policy choice in the current political climate in the country.

“Appointing a retired official to such a pivotal position may not fully address the need for a fresh and forward-thinking approach to electoral governance.

“In today’s Malaysian political landscape, characterised by a desire for transparency, accountability, and reform, appointing a serving official or an expert from a local university could be a more suitable policy.

“Such individuals would bring current, cutting-edge knowledge and a potentially less politicised perspective to the role,” said Lim in a statement today.

Brain drain

Lim said the practice of rehiring retired officials to senior positions would discourage or dampen the enthusiasm of aspiring young officials or talented candidates from joining the government sector.

“Young professionals might perceive limited career progression opportunities if top positions are frequently filled by retirees, leading to a potential brain drain.

“Secondly, an expert from a local university could inject much-needed academic rigour and independent analysis into the EC’s operations. Their involvement could help fortify the EC’s reputation as an impartial body committed to upholding democratic principles.”

New Election Commission chairperson Ramlan Harun

This, according to Lim, would align with Malaysian society’s aspiration for more inclusive and merit-based appointments in the public service, and encourage a new generation of leaders and experts in senior roles to foster a more dynamic and progressive approach to governance.

“While Ramlan’s appointment as the new EC chairperson is a positive development, it is worth considering whether appointing a serving government official or an academic expert could better serve Malaysia’s evolving political needs.

“Such a policy could enhance the EC’s effectiveness, ensure greater public confidence in its operations, and support the broader goals of democratic reform and governance in Malaysia.” - Mkini