It's so unfair to see people get jobs through referrals and friend recommendations while I'm here working so hard to prove myself and get a promotion. I feel there's no point to stay here anymore?

To be harsh, yes this is a childish mindset. Referrals and recommendations is the best way to get a job. my first job till now were all through recommendations and referrals. You get a better understanding of the company before you join, and through tips, you excel the interviews better.

if your efforts are not acknowledged, means you are either climbing the wrong tree, or your efforts are not loud enough.

The 3Ks (kawan - friend, kerabat - lineage, keluarga - family) is rampant where I'm from when it comes to getting govt positions. I think it's inevitable. Our desire to avoid pain is greater than the desire to achieve pleasure - hence the safe bets of our 3Ks.

Nonetheless, effort and skills do in fact gets recognize but perhaps in a different environment.