KUCHING: More states in the country should follow Sarawak’s lead and implement their own ombudsman system at their respective levels, as it will bring significant benefits to the citizens.
The CSO Platform for Reform steering committee in a statement today said it supported and welcomed Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s recent announcement to introduce the system, which will serve as an independent body ensuring transparency and accountability in the public service sector in Sarawak.
It will provide a channel for citizens to lodge complaints on misconducts or errors in the administration of public services.
Consequently, the ombudsman will protect the rights and interests of the people. Additionally, the ombudsman system is essential for enhancing the quality of public services.
“With the authority to investigate any misconduct committed by the public service and officials, the ombudsman can identify issues within the public sector and recommend improvements in service delivery quality. Consequently, this will foster a culture of good governance,” the committee said.
According to the CSO Platform for Reform, one of the reasons why Malaysians faced various issues with the quality of public services is the absence of an institution overseeing the workings of public services.
By establishing an ombudsman, this institution will serve as a representative of the people in ensuring good governance.
However, the establishment must adhere to the true concept and principles of an ombudsman. The proposed ombudsman should be founded upon the principles of independence, fairness, accountability, and transparency.
“If these principles serve as the foundation for the forthcoming ombudsman, it will undoubtedly bring benefits to the people of Sarawak.
“We hope that the establishment of the ombudsman will not merely be symbolic and non-functional, but rather function in accordance with the true essence of an ombudsman,” the committee added.
The CSO Platform for Reform firmly believed that the introduction of the ombudsman in Sarawak represents a significant milestone to achieve well-governed public services that are responsible and favour the people.
This decision will set a positive example for other state governments and the Malaysian government, inspiring them to establish their own ombudsman bodies.
The CSO Platform for Reform is a coalition of 60 CSOs, based in Malaysia, focusing on institutional reforms.
