SULTAN IBRAHIM – HERE I COME - BY : Brigadier Ganeral (R) Dato Muhammad Arshad

I am amazed to read a recent statement made by the newly installed Johor ruler Sultan Ibrahim, who had cautioned all Johor state assemblymen and civil servants to buck-up, or be disposed off if they are found to be non-performers or malingerer in the performance of their work. I believe the Johor ruler meant what he said, and his tone shows the seriousness of his intent.

The Johor ruler had repeatedly said that he wants to be briefed on all that is happening to the state, right down to the village level. This will certainly send shivers to some who have been malingering, and also to those that have all the while thought that their status in government cannot be subject to questioning.

I can sense the plight of all state assemblymen and civil servants, and the sleepless nights that they will have to endure, if they are suddenly being called to the palace for an explanation. Mind you, the Johor ruler even said that he has his own people, or 'agents' of sorts to keep him inform, and this gives little opportunity for anyone to tell a 'cock and bull' story.

This is an example of leadership that our military leaders should emulate. To be at the 'helm' is to know everything that is under one's command, and with knowledge, one tends to gain greater respect. It is pointless for leaders (military included) to go around sporting in suit and tie, accompanied by an entourage of bodyguards, but have little sense of what is happening around them. I am not surprise if there will be some who will jolted, and to even suffer a minor “stroke' at the unexpected sight of the Johor ruler appearing in their offices.

I believe that what the Johor ruler is trying to do is to create a serious awareness among state assemblymen and civil servants of their responsibility to the state and to the people, and that any lack in their responsibility will do injustice to the state, and a disservice to the ordinary people.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION