OSAKA, Sept 8 — Malaysia's reforms in public service administration have been pivotal in improving the country's global competitiveness and enhancing investor confidence, said the Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
He noted that Malaysia has climbed 11 spots in the Swiss-based International Institute for Management Development (IMD) World Competitiveness Ranking, from 34th to 23rd, driven by improved governance and efficiency in government administration.
Shamsul, who also chairs the Special Task Force on Agency Reform (STAR), said the initiative had streamlined 166 processes, saving millions in government expenditure while reducing time and costs for businesses and investors.
He also highlighted the Kuala Lumpur Declaration - Tekad Bersama Perkhidmatan Awam, signed in October last year by all state leaders, as a landmark commitment ensuring that Federal, state, and local authorities move together in transforming the public service.
“With this (declaration), they have given a commitment that state governments and local authorities also will join the Federal government to transform the public service,” Shamsul told the press after officiating the National Day celebration at the Malaysia Pavilion at the Expo 2025 Osaka in Japan.
He added that the recently passed Government Service Efficiency Commitment Bill 2025 (Iltizam) is a government pledge to continue improving services for both the public and the business community over the next three years.
Meanwhile, Malaysia Pavilion director Ellyza Mastura Ahmad Hanipiah said it has exceeded its RM13 billion target in potential trade and investment, achieving over 120 per cent so far.
“We have a few more weeks to go with many other ministries and states joining us. We expect that this number will rise, and hopefully, with the closing of the Malaysia Pavilion by October 13, we will be able to achieve at least about 150 per cent,” she said.
The pavilion, themed ‘Weaving a Future in Harmony’, functions not only as a platform for soft diplomacy but also as a business hub where weekly activities include the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) across multiple sectors, particularly renewable energy, advanced electrical and electronics, with a focus on semiconductors, halal logistics, biotechnology, digital services, and higher education.
Malaysian Ambassador to Japan Datuk Shahril Effendi Abd Ghany said Malaysia’s strong emphasis on cultural diplomacy was highlighted at Expo 2025 Osaka through vibrant performances and people-to-people exchanges.
The colourful National Day parade and performances at the expo’s National Day Hall successfully reflected the best of Malaysia’s traditions, from cultural and contemporary dances to food, demonstrating the nation’s inclusivity.
“Malaysia’s participation is not only about politics, commerce and industry, but also about building connections between people. At the end of the day, it is important to showcase the best of what Malaysia can offer in terms of the resilience of its people and their ability to face future challenges,” he said.
Expo 2025 Osaka is a six-month event, running from April 13 to October 13, on the man-made island of Yumeshima in Osaka.
Themed ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives’, the expo showcases innovative ideas, technologies and a diverse range of exhibits and events.
