KUCHING: Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd has come out in defence of its procurement processes after an assemblywoman cast aspersions on the company’s integrity and governance.
Sarawak Metro’s Chief Executive Officer, Mazli Mustaffa, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity, which include strict adherence to procurement protocols for the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) project.
“These allegations, addressed in detail by the Sarawak Minister of Transport, Datuk Sri Lee Kim Shin, during his winding up speech in the State Legislative Assembly, undermine our continuous efforts to foster a culture of integrity and good governance,” he said.
“Throughout our (KUTS project, we have always maintained the highest levels of integrity, and that includes strict adherence to the processes and procedures related to the KUTS project procurement activities.
“We are also continuously enhancing the standards of governance. That is why it is disappointing to hear allegations that have sought to diminish all our efforts towards creating a culture of integrity and good governance in our organisation,” said Mazli.
For five years, he added, they have strived to establish themselves not just in Sarawak but nationally and internationally, adding that the organisation remains focused on improving public transportation and contributing to Sarawak’s socio-economic growth.
Sarawak Metro is currently pursuing the Anti-Bribery Management System (ABMS) ISO 37001:2016 certification, having completed the Stage 2 Certification Audit as part of its commitment to ethical practices.
Mazli assured that all contracts are awarded transparently and through competitive tendering, including international tenders, to ensure the best value and quality.
“Apart from ensuring the highest levels of governance, our procurement process also emphasises on the importance of competitiveness, which is why we have open tenders and also why we open them up to international tenderers.
“Open tenders and international tenders provide us with more options to not only choose from the lowest bids, but also to evaluate from among many companies who may be able to offer even more added value with their products and services,” he added.
Acknowledging the need for continuous improvement, Mazli welcomed government audits aimed at further enhancing Sarawak Metro’s procurement procedures.
He affirmed the company’s zero-tolerance policy against corruption.
