KUCHING, Aug 24: A robust check and balance system is necessary in the running of government-linked companies (GLCs) in Sarawak to prevent another incident such as the 1MDB scandal, says Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii.
He said all GLCs including the Development Bank of Sarawak (DBOS) and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) that manages billions of ringgit must report directly to the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) to ensure accountability.
“Even the planned sovereign fund which may have noble intentions to benefit our people, if there is little oversight, it could again be abused and end like 1MB which was initially set up as a sovereign fund as well,” he said in a statement today.
He said Sarawakians must learn from the recent conviction and imprisonment of former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
To promote greater transparency as well as check and balance, Dr Yii held that necessary reforms must be implemented in DUN to mitigate any risk of abuse of state funds.
He suggested the establishment of more select committees comprising both government and opposition elected representatives in DUN to monitor every ministry.
“If we aspire to be a mature and world-class democracy, the Sarawak government should lead and introduce such reforms in Sarawak.
“A strong DUN can help avoid such scandals from affecting our beloved homeland and even reveal any scandals that may be happening and bring those involved to justice,” he said. — DayakDaily
