PUTRAJAYA, May 22 —The Special Task Force on Agency Reform (STAR) has agreed to prioritise local think tanks and consultants in advisory roles to the government, while accelerating digitalisation initiatives in public services, said Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.

In a Facebook post today, he said the decision was reached during STAR’s fifth meeting this year, which he chaired this morning

He said the meeting focused on two key areas — the implementation of small-scale projects benefiting the public, including the maintenance of schools, public toilets and community facilities, as well as issues related to the cost of living and job opportunities.

“Amid global economic uncertainty, STAR is seeking solutions to strengthen the implementation of government strategies,” he said.

In a separate Facebook post, Shamsul Azri said he also met industry representatives and chambers of commerce through the Special Task Force to Facilitate Business (PEMUDAH) after the STAR meeting.

He said discussions centred on streamlining tribunal mechanisms to resolve technical disputes in the construction industry, while reducing regulatory burdens to improve productivity and competitiveness.

“In efforts to drive the national economy, I believe the government and industry must continue working closely and strengthening one another,” he said. — Bernama

PUTRAJAYA, May 13 — Datuk Seri Abdul Halim Aman officially began his duties today as the new chief commissioner of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

He succeeds Azam Baki, who ended his service yesterday after 42 years with the anti-graft agency.

In a Facebook post, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar also congratulated Abdul Halim on his appointment.

“I believe his credibility and experience in the legal field will continue to add value, strengthen the role of the MACC and elevate its standing as a prestigious enforcement agency both domestically and internationally,” he said.

Shamsul Azri also shared photographs of Abdul Halim receiving his appointment letter as the new MACC chief commissioner.

At the same time, Shamsul Azri also expressed appreciation to Azam for his four decades of service with the commission.

“Many achievements and reforms were implemented under his leadership in steering the MACC as a leading enforcement body.

“Tan Sri Azam’s contributions will always be remembered, and I hope he will continue contributing to the country in whatever capacity in the future,” he said.

On April 25, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, consented to the appointment of Abdul Halim, a former High Court judge, as the new MACC chief commissioner on a two-year contract effective today until May 12, 2028.

Meanwhile, the MACC, in a statement, extended their best wishes to Abdul Halim as he officially reported for duty as the agency’s new chief commissioner.

“The entire MACC workforce extends its congratulations and wishes him success in leading efforts to strengthen integrity, governance and the nation’s anti-corruption agenda,” the statement read. — Bernama