BETONG: Efforts must be made to address the glaring lack of bumiputeras from Sarawak and Sabah in top federal government posts.
Chairman of the Saribas Muslim Association (Perwaris) Dr Bolhan Budeng said this gap needs to be corrected from time to time.
“As a non-governmental organisation (NGO), we are concerned about the composition of Sarawak bumiputeras in the public service, especially the highest government positions under the jurisdiction of the federal government,” he said.
He was commenting on the issue raised by Tenom MP Noorita Sual who was upset with the low percentage of top government officials from the bumiputera communities of Sabah and Sarawak.
He explained that although promotion is based on merit, the percentage of bumiputeras from Sarawak and Sabah holding the highest positions in public service is very low.
“We understand this may be due to many factors but this needs to be dealt with in a prudent and fair manner so that the role of the Sarawak or Sabah Government is significant in jointly developing the country towards excellence and prosperity.
“Equitable composition among the regions of Sarawak, Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia is very important towards developing the country because expertise with different backgrounds and experiences can ensure the sustainability of the country’s development,” he said.
Bolhan said the diversity of experience and knowledge of those from different regions can improve the performance of the public service as a whole.
