OXFORD, UK – The Johor State Administrative Service (PTNJ/JCS) is exploring opportunities for collaboration with the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS) to develop a special programme aimed at enhancing the knowledge and capabilities of its officers in delivering public services.
The initiative, inspired by HRH SPB Raja Permaisuri Agong Raja Zarith Sofiah, seeks to train and produce dynamic and capable young officers, in line with the Johor State Government’s vision of continuously improving the quality of its administrative service.
Raja Zarith Sofiah highlighted that many aspects of Malaysia’s administrative system are historically adapted from the United Kingdom.
“This collaborative programme will increase knowledge about decision-making practices in government, such as in Whitehall, which is the administrative centre of the English government. This knowledge will open eyes and help JCS in designing and providing better public services for the people,” she said in remarks to the Royal Press Office (RPO).
The proposed programme will also involve Johor Religious Administration Officers, allowing them to participate alongside JCS colleagues.
Raja Zarith noted that this is particularly beneficial as OCIS emphasises the application of Islamic knowledge across various disciplines, including economics, international development and history.
Her Majesty’s visit to OCIS on 11 December was warmly received by Dr. Farhan Ahmad Nizami, Director of OCIS. Established in 1985, the centre is recognised as a leading institution for advanced studies on Islam and the Islamic world.
It is overseen by a Board of Trustees comprising scholars and world leaders, with DYMM Paduka Seri Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah serving as Deputy Chairman.
Accompanying Raja Zarith Sofiah during the visit were Dato’ Asman Shah Abd Rahman, Secretary to the State Government of Johor; Dato’ Dr Badrul Hisham Kassim, Director of the JCS Academy; Dato’ Yahya Ahmad, Mufti of Johor; and YB Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid, Chairman of the Johor State Islamic Affairs Committee.
Observers note that the collaboration between JCS and OCIS could mark a significant step in strengthening Johor’s administrative capacity by combining international best practices with Islamic perspectives, ultimately enhancing the delivery of public services to the people.
