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KUCHING, Aug 19: Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg will lead a Sarawak delegation for a two-day working visit to Sweden starting Monday primarily to benchmark ombudsman legislation and implementation.
Previously, the Premier had made known the intention of the Sarawak government to strengthen the role and functions of the ombudsman through the drafting of the Sarawak Ombudsman Ordinance with Sweden as a model.
On June 14, he revealed that he along with Sarawak government officials will make a working visit to Sweden to conduct a comprehensive study on the country’s ombudsman system.
According to a statement by Office of Premier of Sarawak (OPS) last night (Aug 18), Sweden is picked as a benchmarking partner as it is renowned for its rich and honourable legacy in upholding democratic principles, human rights, transparency, and accountability.
Its highly regarded Ombudsman institution is instrumental in safeguarding citizens’ rights and interests, while also promoting good governance and effective public administration since its establishment in 1809.
“During the visit, the Premier and members of his entourage will also engage with Swedish energy authorities and power operators.
“Afterward, the Premier will continue on with the visit to Norway with a view to gain insights into the development and operation of onshore carbon capture and storage (CCS) and hydrogen facilities in Bergen.
“While in Norway, the Premier will also meet with officials of the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy and hold discussion with industry players on CCS, net-zero emission and decarbonisation initiatives,” it stated.
OPS further mentioned that the Premier will then fly to London to cap off the weeklong visit with a meeting with Shell top officials at the multinational’s headquarters in the British capital.
Accompanying the Premier on the trip are Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, who is Minister for International Trade and Investment Sarawak; Sarawak
Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki and several top government and government-linked corporations’ (GLCs) officials. — DayakDaily
