KUALA LUMPUR: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, should direct any concerns about the performance of his director-general (DG) to the disciplinary committee and the human resources department.
The Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs) secretary-general Abdul Rahman Mohd Nordin said proper procedure dictates that a warning letter should be issued.
This, Abdul Rahman said, should be followed by a request for the DG to provide a letter explaining reasons for underperformance, rather than a sudden termination or demotion notice.
"Ideally, the minister should refer to the human resources department before taking any action," he told the New Straits Times.
Abdul Rahman said such matters should then be escalated to the disciplinary committee, followed by the board of directors and finally to the minister for further action.
He said Tiong must comply with the Statutory Bodies (Discipline and Surcharge) Act 2000 (Act 605) and address complaints indicating misconduct by his DG.
He said the minister should not act hastily and then change decisions afterward.
"What would society's view be? Such actions raise questions about public perception and the integrity of civil servants," he said.
He added that similar standards apply even in the private sector, as there are legal frameworks such as the Tribunal Act and Labour Act governing employment matters.
Earlier, Tiong said Ammar was demoted from his post due to non-performance.
In denying claims that Ammar was removed for alleged racist issues, Tiong clarified that the latter was not sacked, but instead demoted to deputy director-general.
Yesterday, it was reported that Ammar would be removed from his post as of Feb 26.
He told the Malay Mail that he had received a letter from Tiong, informing him of the move.
He said the letter just says that effective Feb 26, he is no longer the director-general.
