KUCHING: Civil servants are prohibited to raise an issue and seek attention from a ministry via social media platforms although it is the easiest way to do so.
This is because they are bound by rules and regulations as stipulated in the Civil Servants (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993.
Sarawak Bumiputera Teachers’ Union (KGBS) president Zulkiflee Sebli said civil servants, including school teachers, were not allowed to criticise or complain against any ministry or government agency openly, publicly or through social media platforms.
He said there were appropriate channels and mechanisms in place for teachers to voice their complaints and dissatisfaction on matters of concern to them, including through a union.
A union, he said, was one of the best platforms for the teachers to raise an issue or complaint as well as for those who wish to share their opinions and views about the country’s education system.
“We are ready to listen to them and will discuss the matters (raised by teachers) with the relevant department and ministry,” he told New Sarawak Tribune when contacted.
“It is not that they cannot complain but they should use the right channel,” he said.
However, he said, the Education Ministry should also treat all complaints or criticisms on social media positively; instead of rushing into issuing a warning or show-cause letters as well as taking action against the particular civil servant or teacher.
Zulkiflee said it was good to take note of the issues posted on social media platforms despite some complaints being unfounded.
He said that teachers were those who were aware of things that occur in schools daily, thus, their feedback could help to improve the education system.
He was commenting on Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek’s recent statement that the practice of issuing warnings to teachers for criticising educational policies on social media should be immediately stopped.
This came after she was informed that a special education teacher at SMK Jalan Reko, Hasmadi Hamdan had been given a warning by officials for his criticisms on social media.
Zulkiflee also said that the union would like to advise teachers to stay ethical on social media platforms and avoid making misleading and offensive statements against any party.
He believed the ministry would be ready to listen to all constructive criticisms.
