Ombudsman provides check on govt activity

THE establishment of the Sarawak Ombudsman will enhance transparency, efficiency and accountability in government agencies as well as bridging the gap between the government and the people.
Repok assemblyman Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii said the ombudsman is part of the system of administrative law; where a state official is appointed to provide a check on government activity in the interests of the people and to oversee the investigation of complaints of improper government activity against the citizen.
“It protects individuals from any acts of injustice, discrimination and abuse of power by the authorities,” he said when debating the Sarawak Ombudsman Bill 2023 at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.
“What is important is that it will also strengthen and restore the public’s confidence in the government,” he added.
In supporting the bill, Huang said the Swedish Ombudsman is the first and oldest Ombudsman in the world, while other developed countries such as Finland, Denmark and New Zealand also have such a system in place.
“Thus, it is timely for Sarawak to have its own ombudsman to safeguard the rights and interests of the people while at the same time promoting good and effective governance,” he said.
Huang expressed his appreciation to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s commitment to ensure Sarawak continues to develop sustainably and on track to prosperity and stability.