Government Mulls Over Merging National Professors Council with Think Tanks
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has recommended that the government consider merging the National Professors Council (MPN) with think tanks such as the Institute of Strategic and International Studies and other relevant agencies. This move, according to PAC Chairman Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin, would allow the government to streamline its functions as a think tank across various fields.
Rationale Behind the Recommendation
The PAC made this recommendation as part of its efforts to evaluate the government’s strategy for the council. According to Samsudin, the council’s current structure and functions may not be effective in achieving its goals, and merging it with other think tanks could lead to a more streamlined and efficient approach.
Government’s Current Options
The government is currently deliberating on two options for MPN’s status: maintaining it as a company limited by guarantee or placing it under the Higher Education Ministry. The PAC is aware of these options and has expressed its opinion on the matter.
Memorandum on MPN’s Status
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has prepared a memorandum on determining the direction of the council’s status, which will be presented at an upcoming cabinet meeting. Samsudin urged the PMO to distribute the memorandum promptly after receiving the cabinet’s decision and to formally notify the PAC in writing of the government’s stance on MPN’s status.
PAC’s Follow-up Actions
The PAC presented a report on the follow-up actions by the PMO and MPN regarding its recommendations on the council. The report outlined the steps taken by the two parties to address the PAC’s concerns and recommendations.
Conclusion
The merger of MPN with think tanks such as the Institute of Strategic and International Studies and other relevant agencies could lead to a more effective and efficient approach to strategic planning and policy-making. The government’s decision on MPN’s status will have a significant impact on the council’s future direction and the country’s development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Public Accounts Committee’s recommendation regarding MPN’s status?
A: The PAC has recommended that the government consider merging MPN with think tanks such as the Institute of Strategic and International Studies and other relevant agencies.
Q: Why did the PAC make this recommendation?
A: The PAC believes that merging MPN with other think tanks would allow the government to streamline its functions as a think tank across various fields.
Q: What are the government’s current options for MPN’s status?
A: The government is deliberating on two options: maintaining MPN as a company limited by guarantee or placing it under the Higher Education Ministry.