By Joey Leclerc
SARAWAK is the first state in Malaysia to establish a new portfolio with the appointment of a minister responsible for Integrity and Ombudsman.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this is a testament to the seriousness of the state government in combating corruption as well as inculcating and nurturing a society of high integrity, and enhancing the socio-economic development based on good governance, accountability and transparency.
He added that this is in tandem with Sarawak’s vision to achieve high income and developed status by 2030.
Sarawak set up its Ombudsman Office after establishing the State Integrity and Ombudsman Unit (UNION) on Feb 1, 2018.
“I place great importance on the portfolio of Integrity and Ombudsman and the
minister responsible report direct to me.
“Hence, in another cabinet reshuffle after the conclusion of the 12th state election on Dec 18, 2021, the relevance and significance of Integrity and Ombudsman portfolio still remain high under my administration,” he said in conjunction with Ombuds Day 2022 on Oct 13.
“Over the last four years since its inception, the Sarawak Ombudsman has performed well in managing complaints effectively and efficiently.
“The Sarawak Ombudsman, will, where relevant, make recommendations for improvements to the process and procedures or on any other matters relating to public administration,” he said.
Besides managing complaints, the Ombudsman also inspected projects undertaken by the state government.
According Abang Johari, projects must be properly and successfully implemented. Attention must also be given to delayed or critically-delayed projects to ensure the government’s commitments to the rakyat are fulfilled.
In fulfilling the National Anti-Corruption Plan (NACP), Abang Johari said 67 state agencies have completed their Organisation Anti-Corruption Plan (OACP) while the others are still developing theirs.
He also said that Sarawak, which presently has 90 certified Integrity Officers (CEIO), will continue its cooperation with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Academy to recruit and train more such officers to be posted to various state departments and agencies.
