As his 100th day as Chief Secretary to the Government approaches, Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar remains steadfast in strengthening the public service reform agenda to enhance civil service efficiency and public trust in the government.

Officially appointed on Aug 12, Shamsul’s first directive came on the night of his appointment announcement on Aug 7, when Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim sent a brief but clear message: “Please start your reforms now.”

“Therefore, my top priority is to reform the public service. One of my key focuses is that every three years...