By Amanda L
KUCHING, Nov 2: International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) Interim Dean Drago Kos has praised Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for his commitment to fighting corruption, describing Sarawak as a potential role model for other regions worldwide.
“There are not so many political leaders around the world who are still willing to do so,” he said during the launching ceremony of the Sarawak Regional Governance Leadership Programme 2026 at a hotel today.
He said Sarawak’s initiative demonstrated how regional governments could take independent action without waiting for national-level intervention.
“There are even less regions as part of these countries who would be willing to take independent and autonomous initiatives to do the same.
“This is why being here in Sarawak is not only important for us as an International Academy, but I think it’s also important to serve as a role model for many other regions of the world,” he explained.
He also stressed that the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between IACA and the Unit for Integrity and Ombudsman (UNIONS) must translate into practical outcomes.
The partnership would allow both institutions to develop joint programmes, train trainers and provide practical assistance to Sarawak’s state-owned companies facing governance challenges.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya said the four-day programme brought together 70 Certified Integrity Officers (CeIOs) from across Sarawak.
Adapted from IACA’s flagship Regional Summer Academy, the programme focuses on international cooperation, corruption prevention, good governance, ethical leadership and accountability.
Juanda said participants would also explore the use of big data and artificial intelligence (AI) to identify corruption risks and strengthen preventive measures.
“We need integrity officers who are knowledgeable, credible and courageous enough to raise concerns about weaknesses or non-compliance professionally, based on facts and existing regulations,” he said.
He added that the MoU would also open opportunities for Sarawak public servants, particularly CeIOs, to participate in IACA’s Regional Summer Academy overseas, subject to relevant regulations. — DayakDaily
