By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Aug 6: Sarawak Ombudsman officers will be placed in all government agencies across the State as part of efforts to strengthen governance, improve accountability and ensure weaknesses identified in audit reports are addressed.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the move forms part of Sarawak’s efforts to build a stronger integrity framework, alongside training officers together with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and strengthening oversight mechanisms.
“Today, Sarawak already has the Ombudsman. We train our officers together with MACC and they will be placed in all government agencies,” he said when officiating the Integrity and Excellence Day of the Sarawak Construction Industry 2026 (IECONS 2026) held at the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Sarawak Complex here today.
Abang Johari said through the Ombudsman, the State government would also place greater emphasis on audit reports to ensure weaknesses highlighted are properly addressed.
“Through the Ombudsman, we give serious attention to audit reports. Sometimes, they do not take into account what is shown in the audit report. This is one of our weaknesses,” he said.
He said sufficient training would be provided to officers placed in agencies that serve as key drivers of Sarawak’s development to strengthen their capacity in carrying out their responsibilities.
Abang Johari said integrity and accountability must also be strengthened within the construction industry to ensure development projects deliver maximum value to the people.
He said technology has made project implementation more efficient, with tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) allowing planners and developers to visualise designs in 3D and accurately estimate the materials required.
“In the past, when we wanted to develop a building, we only had plans. But now, the plans can be viewed through 3D and BIM modelling systems where you can calculate all the materials needed to build that particular building,” he said.
He said such technology allows project costs to be estimated more accurately, enabling projects to be delivered according to approved budgets.
However, he noted that variations may still occur due to factors such as imported raw material prices, international market conditions and currency fluctuations.
Abang Johari said proper assumptions based on material trends and currency movements must be taken into consideration during budgeting, while financial mechanisms such as hedging can be used to manage price risks.
He stressed that while systems and technology are important, integrity ultimately depends on individuals.
“Integrity comes from the heart. If you are born with the heart to help people and deliver with utmost honesty, you are there,” he said.
Also present were Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, CIDB Malaysia chairman Dato Yusuf Abdul Wahab, CIDB Malaysia chief executive Ahmad Farrin Mokhtar, and MACC Sarawak director Hasbillah Mohamad Salleh. — DayakDaily
