KOTA SAMARAHAN: The Sarawak Ombudsman Department has the potential to become a strong reference model for ombudsman practices in Malaysia.
Danish Parliamentary Ombudsman, Christian Britten Lundblad, said the department’s rapid progress and growing public confidence since its establishment showed that it was effectively performing its role in addressing complaints involving public authorities.
“I see a very promising future for the Ombudsman in Sarawak.
“Based on what was shared with me, there is interest in looking at Sarawak’s experience, and I think the idea of using it as a reference model is a positive one for building public trust.
“That is why I am confident the Sarawak Ombudsman will continue to grow and develop further,” he told the media during an official visit to Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) here today.
Lundblad said his recent visit to the department provided a clearer picture of the work being carried out, noting similarities with the types of complaints handled by ombudsman institutions in other countries.
“During my visit, I observed that many complaints had been lodged with the department.
“I used to think Danes made a lot of complaints, but it appears the people of Sarawak also do so when public authorities do not fulfil their responsibilities.
“This shows the Ombudsman here is functioning and earning the confidence of the public,” he added.
Additionally, he noted that the development of Malaysia’s Ombudsman institution had progressed well, which in turn sparked Denmark’s interest in exploring deeper collaboration.
“We find the establishment of the Ombudsman institution in Malaysia very interesting, and we believe the work being carried out is courageous and commendable – enough to draw our interest to come, learn and collaborate.
“I have learned a great deal during my time here and we hope to continue this good cooperation in the years to come,” he said.
