17 December 2024

KUCHING: The Malaysian Productivity Corporation (MPC) has unveiled its Behavioural Insights (BI) initiative as a comprehensive and inclusive approach to improving policymaking and driving productivity in Malaysia.

According to MPC Sarawak director Dr Mazlina Shafii, the effort aligns with the goals of the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) to create flexible, responsive and effective policies that address global challenges.

"BI integrates psychology, cognitive science, social sciences and empirical evidence to influence decision-making processes. This initiative is designed to help policymakers develop impactful interventions that enhance public service delivery and foster better outcomes for communities.

"In line with 12MP, MPC has been tasked by the government with facilitating the implementation of BI in policy formulation," said Mazlina in a statement yesterday.

She said to ensure the success of this initiative, MPC would go all out towards building the capacity of public servants, as well as conducting case studies and strategic projects across various levels of ministries. departments, agencies and local authorities.

In the same statement, she also highlighted countries like the UK that had successfully implemented BI in public policies for over a decade, establishing the Behavioural Insights Team (BIT) in 2010.

"Malaysia, through MPC, adopted this approach in 2020, aiming to encourage better choices among individuals and communities, while improving public service delivery.

"One notable application of BI is a collaboration between MPC and DBKU (Kuching North City Commission) on parking summons and compound payment compliance.

"This case study aimed to identify reasons for non- compliance, address the delays in payments, and improve communication methods to encourage timely payments.

"The collaboration involved strategic discussions, behavioural analysis and systematic testing of intervention measures. These efforts are expected to yield practical, evidence-based solutions that would enhance DBKU's efficiency in managing parking-related issues."

Mazlina also pointed out that the findings reflected a joint commitment towards creating a fairer, more efficient and more user-friendly management system.

"The initiative could contribute to sustainable urban development and support broader vision for more inclusive policies."

Adding on, Mazlina said moving forward, the MPC would be out to strengthen its collaborations with ministries, agencies and industry leaders to broaden the application of the BI initiative.

"The goal is to productivity growth drive that benefits businesses, investors and the public, while fostering innovation in policymaking. With innovation and transformation, we aim to continuously refine the implementation of BI to amplify its positive impact," she added

Source: The Borneo Post Sarawak