PUTRAJAYA, July 3 — Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Abd Rahman started his first day of work today by dispensing with the formalities of his new position.
The 25-year-old asked his ministry’s staff to address him as “Bro Saddiq” instead of the “YB” honorific that is customary for lawmakers and which means “Yang Berhormat”.
“I hope people will call me ‘bro Saddiq. Calling me YB makes me feel older,” he said, explaining that he wanted to break down the barriers within the ministry.
“I also want to nurture an active lifestyle the staff will jog with me early in the morning or after work hours in the evening.”
The Muar MP likened his ministerial staff to “family” and urged them to embrace the youth spirit.
He also said he will not be taking a top-down management approach.
“Some of the staff have been here for 20 years or more and have had more experience that I have. I come here humbly to seek their opinion and advice.
“I don’t want this family to be a syok sendiri ministry,” he said.
Syed Saddiq also highlighted the importance of integrity, and said the ministry should create a new benchmark on integrity, trust, and the work culture.
“Our success is when we provide our service better. That is our primary role and responsibility,” he said.
