PETALING JAYA: More ministers should follow in the footsteps of the Prime Minister and some Cabinet members when going about on public appearances and attending events, say the public.

       Last week, a video of Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob who went for Friday prayers at a mosque without escorts went viral on social media.

       Atikah Junaidi, 24, said she lauded the act of the Prime Minister who showed that he could be approachable in the eyes of citizens.

       She said an excessive entourage or welcoming party when a minister visits a public area should be cut down.

       “As a citizen and voter, I want to be able to meet and talk to a minister or a parliamentarian to convey the issues we are facing.

       “On top of that, by having a simple ceremony it would help cut cost and time,” the graphic designer from Putrajaya said.

       An event executive from Kuala Lumpur said rather than having a huge entourage when visiting a public area or opening an event, leaders should instead produce results through their work and responsibility.

       The 35-year old, who only wished to be known as Hariz, said the public would respect leaders even more when they are low-profile.

       “As a leader, one should be humble while giving their all and serving the rakyat. Reduce the excessive spending on welcoming ceremonies that barely benefit the people,” he said.

       Recently, Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin stunned the staff of Hospital Tuanku Jaafar in Seremban with a visit after an event in the same area.

       The Rembau MP also made a surprise visit to Hospital Kajang last month.

       In conjunction with World’s Post Day on Oct 9, Multimedia and Communication Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa made an unplanned visit to a post office in Rawang.