KUALA LUMPUR, 5th March 2025—The Consumer Choice Center (CCC) supports the Public Administration Efficiency Commitment Bill 2025, which seeks to enhance government efficiency, cut bureaucracy, and improve transparency. These reforms are key to strengthening governance, boosting economic growth, and improving Malaysia’s Corruption Perception Index (CPI) ranking. By reducing red tape and improving service delivery, the Bill can enhance Malaysia’s competitiveness in attracting investment and fostering a dynamic business environment.

Tarmizi Anuwar, Malaysia Country Associate at the Consumer Choice Center, stated:

“The tabling of the Public Administration Efficiency Commitment Bill is a positive move towards improving government efficiency and reducing regulatory burdens. This initiative aligns with global best practices in governance and public service delivery. By addressing excessive bureaucracy and implementing a service performance ratings system, the government can enhance transparency, promote accountability, and restore public trust. More importantly, these reforms can create a business-friendly environment that strengthens Malaysia’s overall competitiveness.”

Clause 6 of the Bill, which mandates government entities to review and reduce regulatory burdens by at least 25% every three years, is particularly commendable. Regulatory excess has long been a concern for businesses and consumers, stifling innovation and economic progress. Reducing unnecessary red tape will not only improve Malaysia’s business environment but also ensure a more consumer-friendly regulatory framework, making the country a more attractive destination for investment and entrepreneurship.

Furthermore, the introduction of a service performance ratings system under Clause 7 is a crucial step in monitoring the effectiveness and efficiency of government entities. This will encourage continuous improvement and provide the public with measurable insights into service delivery, ensuring that businesses and individuals benefit from a more responsive and efficient administration.

“The implementation of regular performance assessments and public reporting is essential in ensuring that government agencies remain accountable and efficient. Additionally, allowing state government entities to voluntarily submit performance reports enhances the culture of transparency and fosters competition in service delivery. A government tjrprioritizes efficiency and responsiveness will ultimately improve Malaysia’s ability to compete on a regional and global scale,” added Tarmizi.

The Bill represents an opportunity to tackle inefficiencies that hinder business growth. By streamlining administrative processes and fostering a results-driven public sector, Malaysia can create a more conducive environment for businesses and consumers alike.

The Consumer Choice Center urges the government to ensure the effective implementation of these measures, with clear benchmarks and public engagement mechanisms to guarantee meaningful outcomes. A transparent, efficient, and accountable public administration will not only enhance Malaysia’s international reputation but also improve economic opportunities and competitiveness.