THE Sarawak Ombudsman Bill is timely and if implemented and enforced properly, will help tremendously in enhancing performance, responsibilities and duties for efficient delivery of public services.
Wilfred Yap (GPS-Kota Sentosa) said the Bill provides a channel for people to submit legitimate complaints against public servants and public agencies to the ombudsman who will conduct fair and unbiased investigations.
“The public is rightfully entitled to, in the first place therefore, lodge complaints to the ombudsman if public agencies and public servants frequently do not respond to complaints made to them through ‘tali khidmat’ or if they do not resolve the issues complained in ‘tali khidmat’ or if they reply with inaccurate responses, if necessary, even the elected representative will also be using the services of ombudsman,” he said when debating on the Bill at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting on Monday.
He pointed out that when public institutions operate in a fair, efficient and transparent manner, it will create an environment that is conducive to investment and business growth.
“This in turn can lead to job creation, increase productivity and overall economic development of Sarawak.
“Contrary to the negative remarks on the Bill, for example, Section 35 on the power of arrest, this provision is necessary as the removal of this power will negate the power of investigation on any party who refuses to cooperate with the ombudsman.
“The removal of this power of arrest will render the ombudsman as a tiger without teeth. In any event, this power of arrest can only be exercised if there is reasonable suspicion of the party committing an offence.
“The check-and-balance is already clearly stated in the provision itself and as such should be maintained,” he said.
