He said this was to ensure that such a move does not disrupt the operation of government services, Bernama reported.

Wan Ahmad Dahlan was referring to the directive by the chief secretary to the government Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, who had ordered JPA to carry out the policy to “curb burnout” among such staff.

It was previously reported that Shamsul wanted the policy to be implemented this month.

Wan Ahmad Dahlan said JPA will coordinate the rotation of clerical counter staff, who are general officers, involving 1,063 individuals.

He added that JPA would also ensure that the relevant departments carry out job rotations under the supervision of their respective heads for non-general officers, such as those in the road transport department (JPJ) and the immigration department.

According to Wan Ahmad Dahlan, counter staff deal with knowledgeable customers who demand explanations.

“Therefore, any staff assigned to the counter should also be knowledgeable so that the processes run smoothly and the public can enjoy better services.

“We will find ways to equip them (with knowledge),” he told Bernama.

Wan Ahmad Dahlan said the five-year job rotation policy is not new and that it has been practised for the past 20 years.

He called for the state public services and statutory bodies to also implement the policy, following numerous complaints regarding the quality of service at government service counters.

Wan Ahmad Dahlan said officers in non-sensitive positions are usually given up to eight years to serve in their posts.

However, he believes that the job rotation policy would help civil servants gain additional knowledge and experience, enhance safety, and expand their professional networks.

He also said that JPA would ensure department heads implement the job rotation policy according to the set principles for the overall benefit of the public service.