Malaysia’s work-from-home (BDR) policy for civil servants has helped the government save approximately RM73 million in RON95 petrol subsidies since it was introduced on 15 April, according to Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
He said the initiative has significantly reduced fuel consumption while ensuring that public services continue to operate effectively. The savings are part of the government’s broader efforts to manage rising subsidy costs and strengthen fiscal sustainability amid global economic challenges.
Shamsul Azri stressed that working from home should not affect productivity or service delivery. To support this, government agencies are using digital monitoring systems, including the SPOT-Me application, to track attendance and daily work activities, ensuring accountability and efficiency among public servants.
He also encouraged department heads to continue embracing digital transformation and flexible working arrangements while maintaining high standards of public service. According to him, the BDR initiative demonstrates that technology-driven work practices can help reduce government expenditure without compromising services to the public.
