By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, Nov 29: Sarawak has been accorded a clean certificate for its Public Accounts for the 21st consecutive years, a testimony for good governance and prudent spending.
Second Finance Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said this outstanding achievement is a result of the Sarawak government’s consistent display of professionalism and prudent financial management.
“This achievement is not just any milestone but a consistent narrative of sustained commitment to financial excellence by the GPS government,” said Uggah when delivering his ministerial winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here today.
He said the Sarawak government has always emphasised the importance of maintaining good governance practices in order to achieve and sustain its sound financial position.
“This is proven by the reaffirmation of our commendable investment-grade credit ratings by both international and domestic rating houses, whereby Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s reaffirmed the State’s ratings at A3 and A- respectively, whilst Rating Agency Malaysia (RAM) at Triple A (AAA).
“The State’s ability to obtain and maintain commendable high investment-grade credit ratings is testimony to our sound financial performance, underpinned by strong reserves and good budgetary practices,” said Uggah who is also Deputy Premier of Sarawak.
He took the opportunity to thank all Sarawak civil servants for steadfastly practising good financial management and governance while also urging them to continue maintaining professional ethics and the highest level of integrity.
At the same time, Uggah said his ministry will continue to ensure excellent financial management of the State by adopting international best practices, managing risks and performance, and having robust internal controls.
“This is being done by leveraging on digital technologies, and strengthening the professionalism and competencies of our State Civil Service,” said Uggah. — DayakDaily
