PUTRAJAYA: The Government will soon set up a taskforce similar to The Special Taskforce to Facilitate Business (PEMUDAH) to enhance its two-way communication platform with the people.

“After the success of PEMUDAH, the Prime Minister feels it's time we set up a taskforce to listen to the people's needs,” Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Sidek Hassan said at a press conference here yesterday.

The taskforce is the second step being taken by the government after the launch of its “Warkah Untuk PM” website ( www.warkahuntukpm.com.my ) last Saturday by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak. It allows people to convey their views and suggestions directly to the Prime Minister towards further improving the public administration.

Warkah Untuk PM is a collaboration between seven non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that consist of the Malay Chamber of Commerce, Federation of Malaysian Consumers' Association, Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil, National Council of Women's Organisations, Tabung Amanah Muhibah, Yayasan Kajian dan Strategi Melayu and Yayasan Pekerja Malaysia.

“Most of the e-mails received are about the public service, which is under my purview,” Mohd Sidek said. Since the launch of the website last Saturday, 2,229 e-mails have been received as of yesterday, with 76.9% in the form of positive feedback, 12.4% negative and 10.2% neutral.

Key concerns include those related to crime, rising prices, immigration and education. In response to the feedback, relevant ministries or departments have been told to deal directly with the people.