The Conducive Public Sector Ecosystem (EKSA) ‘gotong-royong’ boasts the capacity to provide the denizens of Universiti Utara Malaysia with a conducive working environment.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan stated that this activity also focuses on ensuring that all buildings, office environments, and outdoor areas in each zone remain clean and tidy.

He explained that UUM launched EKSA on 19 September 2023. The planning and implementation of EKSA have been ongoing since 2023 and will continue throughout the year 2024.

“EKSA represents a rebranding of the 5S practices, following current changes and requirements to enhance the overall performance and competitiveness of an organisation.

“In addition, the implementation of EKSA will further promote a culture of creativity and innovation among the denizens of UUM,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the programme implemented for the day would be the start of greater success for UUM.

“The management will consistently support efforts to further enhance the working environment.

“Through cooperation and commitment from across all departments, we will ultimately achieve our aim,” he said at the Conducive Public Sector Ecosystem (EKSA) “Gotong-Royong” Launching Ceremony held at the Convention Centre.

In addition to all zone leaders and denizens of the university, who have contributed to the success of this EKSA programme, he extended his highest appreciation to the Quality and Accreditation Management Centre (PPQA) for its role as coordinator of EKSA implementation at UUM.

He characterised the presence of the staff as unwavering support for the programme initiated by PPQA, particularly in its efforts to enhance the working ecosystem and conducive environment at this university.

“I urge all heads of departments and everyone to collaborate within their respective departments; may our efforts yield fruitful results for our beloved university,” he said.

During the event, he officiated the launching gimmick of UUM EKSA “Gotong-Royong” and a symbolic tree planting.

Additionally, he also presented placards for  leaders of each zone; Zone 1, Assoc. Prof. Dr Mohamad Khadafi Rofie (Director of the Islamic Centre); Zone 2, Prof. Dr Muhammad Fuad Othman (Director of the Centre for Foundation Studies in Management); Zone 3, Assoc. Prof. Dr Lily Julienti Abu Bakar (Director of the Alumni Centre); Zone 4, Prof. Dr Che Azlan Taib (Sultanah Bahiyah Library, Chief Librarian); Zone 5, Assoc. Prof. Dr Herman Shah Anuar, (Director of the Professional and Continuing Education Centre (PACE)); Zone 6, Dr Za’im Ahmad (Director of the Co-Curriculum Centre) and Zone 7, Mr. Ahmad Mujahid Abd Ghani (Director of the Student Accommodation Centre (SAC)).

Meanwhile, Assoc. Prof. Dr Mohd Hanif Jedin, the Director of the Quality and Accreditation Management Centre, who is also the coordinator of EKSA, mentioned that PPQA has initiated the EKSA Implementation Roadshow at UUM, involving all the seven zones. The roadshow began on 13 February 2024 and is now underway.

“I hope all zones can fully commit to the successful implementation of the UUM EKSA programme to attain an excellent rating in EKSA certification award and set a benchmark for other public universities,” he said.

He mentioned that the EKSA audit by the Malaysian Administrative Modernisation and Management Planning Unit (MAMPU) is scheduled for November 2024.