Frontline work of civil service is key: DPM Teo Chee Hean

Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean said that engaging the public is key, as he called on public servants to support their frontline colleagues.

He urged civil service agencies to maintain good standards of service, but added that they will be supported in the face of unfair accusations or abuse.

Mr Teo, the Minister in Charge of the Civil Service, made these points in a message to the civil service at the start of Public Service Week today.

His message of support for frontline staff came as he acknowledged a new environment in Singapore where views and criticism are more diverse and spreading more quickly than before.

"There is much to be gained, listening carefully to alternative views. And we can get better ideas in this way. Through such meaningful dialogues, we also build a shared vision, and we can work towards it together in the spirit of mutual trust and respect," he said.

"All of us must see frontline work as a key part of the work of our agencies. And we must provide our frontline officers with support, training, resources so that they can serve the public in the spirit of mutual respect and courtesy. All agencies should maintain these good standards of services, and at the same time, we should support our officers should they be subject to unfair accusations or to abuse."

In his message, Mr Teo also reminded public service officers of their mission: "Service to our nation and to the people of Singapore must always be at the heart of everything we do,"

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