PSD secretary-general Shafiq Abdullah let go

Public Service Department (PSD) director-general Mohd Shafiq Abdullah was let go effective Dec 12, Chief Secretary to the Government Mohd Zuki Ali confirmed today. 

In a statement, Zuki said the termination of Shafiq's service was in line with Rule 49(3) of the Public Officers Regulations Act (Conduct and Discipline) 1993.

He added that Shafiq was retired in accordance with Subsection 10(5)(d) of the Pensions Act 1980, which allows him to enjoy the retirement benefits to which he is entitled. 

"The decision was made after undergoing all of the procedures for termination in the public interest, and after being scrutinised for regularity by the Attorney-General's Chambers," he said. 

"On behalf of the government, I express the deepest appreciation and thanks to Shafiq for his service and devotion to the state as a civil servant." 

News of the termination of Shafiq's service comes a little over a week after treasury secretary-general Asri Hamidin was said to have been placed on leave. 

A source said then that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had said during the first meeting at the finance ministry that the secretary-general would be replaced. 

Shafiq, 58, was appointed as director-general of public service on Feb 10 this year to replace Mohd Khairul Adib Abd Rahman who went on compulsory retirement on Jan 16.