Need for judicious use of govt telephones

Dear Editor,

I just want to clarify the policies regarding personal use of departments or ministries' phone line. Just a few days ago, I have seen a civil servant using the office phone line to make personal calls. I understand if it is for emergency, but during the 30 minutes I was at the department waiting area, she called at least three different people talking about fruits and onions. I can only assume that she was talking about their sungkai meal or for their preparation for the upcoming Hari Raya celebration. Why not use your own mobile phone? Why waste government resources?

Using office line for personal use will prevent the members of the public from getting through to the office, especially when the department deals with the public. I have been on the receiving end where my calls to a particular department were either engaged or went unanswered. Transparency of these departments and ministries are one thing, but if we cannot even get hold of the person we need to talk to clarify our concerns, what does that mean?

If you are using the office resources for your own personal use, at least make sure that you show high commitment in your work.

Ar-Rayyan
Temburong