By Peter Sibon
KUCHING, Nov 12: Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Talib Zulpilip today defended the composition of the state’s civil service by stating that it is based on meritocracy. He challenged those who disagree with it to come up with facts and statistics.
“Postings on cyber (realm) are exaggerating. We just look at the facts. If they don’t believe it, they can check. But let me ask them whether they themselves practise meritocracy or when they have power, will they bring their own friends?” Talib told the media after delivering his winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly today.
Talib, who is a former Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) chairman, also reiterated that when he helmed the organisation, he had ensured that various races were given opportunities to lead the various departments.
“As far as I know, when I was in SEDC, I didn’t see people coming in with their friends and relatives. I was there for over 20 years, and I didn’t bring anyone of my friends and relatives in,” he said.
When asked on the latest standard operating procedure of the state government in recruiting new members of the civil service, Talib said: “Time will come when race is secondary and meritocracy to come in will (take precedence).
“And you look at the administration at the intake point. There will be more (people of difference) races coming in. I have seen the list and all the races are there,” he said.
Talib is confident that the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)-led state government would continue to have a fair racial representation in the state civil service.
“I am confident, and I’m looking forward to getting things through. We have done it,” said the Jepak lawmaker, without elaborating. — DayakDaily
