JPA Daily Buzz - Edisi 42 2026

page 2 The Work From Home (WFH) directive is not a form of movement restriction such as the Movement Control Order (MCO) experienced previously. Rather, it is a work management approach aimed at ensuring the continuity of public service delivery while taking into account current needs. In its implementation, there are sectors that are unable to fully adopt WFH due to the nature of their responsibilities, particularly those classified as essential services . These roles require physical presence to ensure uninterrupted service delivery to the public. This difference in circumstances highlights the need for a broader understanding of how policies are applied in practice. In today’s digital environment, the space to express opinions is open and immediate. Views can be shared quickly and widely. However, with this openness comes greater responsibility especially for public officers. Every word written, every comment made, and every reaction expressed is no longer seen as purely personal, but may reflect the image of the public service as a whole. This is where professionalism, respect and decorumbecome essential. Differences in opinion are not wrong. Providing feedback is not wrong. But how we communicate must reflect the values we uphold. Harsh language, insults, or emotionally driven reactions may provide temporary relief, but they do not lead to solutions. Instead, they may undermine individual credibility and affect public perception of the institution we represent. In contrast, feedback delivered respectfully creates space to be heard, understood, and considered. As public officers, we are not only implementers of policy, we are also the face of the public service . Public trust is built not only through policy, but through the conduct and communication of every individual within the system including in digital spaces. We are also guided by shared values and commitments, including those reflected in the Public Service Pledge. These are not merely formalities, but principles that shape our integrity, professionalism, and sense of responsibility. This extends beyond how we perform our duties, to how we engage in public discourse. At the same time, the public service continues to evolve. Constructive feedback plays an important role in improving policies over time, and should be channelled through appropriate and constructive means. Ultimately, we all seek the same outcomes which are effective service delivery, balanced working conditions, and a fair system. Achieving this requires two things to move together: Clear policies, and individuals who communicate with integrity . In the end, not every situation will be viewed in the same way. But in facing these differences, we still have a choice, to respond with emotion, or with wisdom. As public officers, that choice carries greater meaning. The right to speak is ours. Howwe speak reflects who we are. Upholding the dignity of the public service is our shared responsibility. Dr. Diyana Hassim Head of Corporate Communications Public Service Department