Tabling of new Native Courts Bill likely next sitting

A NEW Native Courts Bill which aims to restructure and elevate the Native Courts to be on par with the Civil Courts and Syariah Courts is expected to be tabled in the next State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting. Minister in the Premier’s Department Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai said based on recommendations in the master […]

Speaker urged to prioritise opposition leader appointment for democratic integrity

KUCHING: Special Assistant to Chong Chieng Jen, Michael Kong Feng Nian, has urged the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Speaker to promptly address the absence of an opposition leader in the Sarawak State Assembly. This plea comes in the wake of revelations that Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh, formerly holding the position, relinquished his role after […]

Electricity amendment Bill unanimously passed

The Electricity (Amendment) Bill was unanimously passed at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) on Tuesday, November 21. The bill was tabled by Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi and passed after the third reading. In response to Miro Simuh (GPS-Serembu) during his winding-up speech, Julaihi stated that there is no need […]

Check and balance in government agencies

THE Sarawak Ombudsman Bill serves as check and balance in government agencies and ultimately, creates good governance. Safiee Ahmad (GPS-DARO) pointed out that the bill served as a warning and reminder to departments, ministries and organisations to improve their services and receive all suggestions for improvement and to protect the welfare of community members from […]

Ombudsman provides check on govt activity

THE establishment of the Sarawak Ombudsman will enhance transparency, efficiency and accountability in government agencies as well as bridging the gap between the government and the people.Repok assemblyman Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii said the ombudsman is part of the system of administrative law; where a state official is appointed to provide a check on […]

No political influence assured

THERE will be no political influence that can be exerted under Sarawak Ombudsman Ordinance that will interfere with investigations of a complaint. Satok assemblyman Datuk Ibrahim Baki said the Sarawak government respects the concept of separation of powers and the importance for the Sarawak Ombudsman to be independent for it to fulfill its objective and […]

Ombudsman Bill timely

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 […]

Sarawak Ombudsman isn’t a toothless tiger

THE establishment of the Sarawak Ombudsman is a positive step towards ensuring better government, more efficient and transparent public agencies and improved protection of the rights of the common person.Ba’ Kelalan assemblyman, Baru Bian said the public is increasingly aware of the rights of citizens, and thus expects and demands a capable, accountable and fair […]

Avenue for public to report maladministration: Awang Tengah

THE proposed Sarawak Ombudsman Bill 2023 will enhance transparency and accountability in government agencies by allowing the public to report maladministration to the ombudsman. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan who tabled the Bill during the State Legislative Assembly (DUNI) sitting on Monday said the ombudsman will ensure check-and-balance elements are in place […]

A commitment to future generations, says Pang

THE Sarawak Ombudsman Bill 2023 symbolises the dedication to good governance which promises a future where public administration is not only efficient and effective but also equitable. Johnny Pang (GPS-Tanjong Batu) said the Bill is not just a legal document but a commitment to the future generations that Sarawak will continue to uphold the principles […]