Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has set up a designated e-mail address to gather public feedback in a move to cut corruption and red tape in the civil service.

According to a report in the Sin Chew Daily today, the public can now send in their opinions and suggestions through reduceredtape@pmo.gov.my or kurangkanredtape@pmo.gov.my if they face bureaucratic procedural obstacles at government departments.

Alternatively, they could fax to the Prime Minister's office at 03-88883424 or access its website and click on the words 'inisiatif kurangkan red tape' to leave their message.

The news report quoted a statement from the Prime Minister's Department communication unit which explained that the move was part of measures to cut red tape in government departments.

Improve services

The statement said Abdullah hoped that by setting up the email contact, the people could have a channel to voice their problems or suggestions in order for the government to improve its services.

The new premier had vowed to eradicate corrupt practices after he took over the premiership on Oct 31.

He has also instructed the cabinet to set up a National Institute of Integrity to deal with the departmental efficiency.

Yesterday, Abdullah made a surprise visit at the Immigration Department and said more spot checks would be carried out on frontline offices at government departments.



Editor's note: We encourage malaysiakini readers to take advantage of this initiative and send us a copy of their complaints so that we can keep track of the effectiveness of this programme. Please carbon copy (CC) your complaints to editor@malaysiakini.com