KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor has proposed that the Sabah Public Service Department consider establishing a Galleria or Mini Civil Service Museum focusing on the office of the State Secretary.
He said the gallery could showcase documents, speeches and memorabilia related to former State Secretaries, including records of their achievements and contributions across different eras, reflecting the leadership of each State Secretary.
“Such a gallery would certainly serve as a reference centre for the development of the public service sector, while also functioning as a resource centre for students from secondary school to higher education institutions,” he said at the “Sanjungan Budi Tautan Legasi” appreciation dinner honouring former State Secretary Datuk Seri Panglima Sr Safar Untong at the Magellan Sutera Resort here tonight.
The Chief Minister said the State Secretary post is the highest-ranking position in the State civil service.
“Since gaining independence 63 years ago, the State has had only 11 State Secretaries, namely Robert Turner, Datuk John Dusing, Tan Sri Richard Lind, Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Egoh, Tan Sri Simon Sipaun, Tan Sri Datu Haji Khalil bin Haji Jamalul, Datuk K.Y. Mustafa, Tan Sri Sukarti Wakiman, Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hashim Paijan, Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Safar Untong and, most recently, Datuk Zainudin Haji Aman.
“Each of these former State Secretary has their own strengths, accomplishments and legacy. Tonight, we celebrate the legacy left by the 10th State Secretary (Safar), after serving for six years, seven months and 24 days, during which he worked alongside the State leadership and civil servants through many challenges and achievements,” he said.
Hajiji also commended Safar, saying he had not only enhanced the efficiency of the State Civil Service but had also introduced positive changes in line with advances in information technology during his tenure as State Secretary.
“He spearheaded the digitalisation of government administration by introducing the Smart Digital Government initiative into the government’s service delivery system.
“It is an initiative that should not only be continued but also upgraded from time to time to meet evolving needs and expectations,” he said.
Hajiji said that, given Safar’s extensive experience in administration and management, as well as his expertise in land development, he has been given a new role as the Chairman of Tanjung Aru Eco Development Sdn Bhd (TAED).
“I believe the government-linked company will greatly benefit from the leadership of Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Safar,” he said.
Meanwhile, on behalf of the State Government leadership, Hajiji expressed his appreciation and gratitude to Safar for his dedicated service and contributions to the State Civil Service as State Secretary.-pr/BNN
