There is no requirement under the Sarawak Ombudsman Ordinance 2023 for opposition representatives to be included in the Special Select Committee formed under the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN), says Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya.
Juanda said the appointments were made in accordance with Standing Order 74 and based on qualifications and capability rather than political affiliation.
“The ordinance does not state that there must be opposition representation. If the ordinance specifically required it, then certainly we would appoint one,” he told a press conference during the DUN sitting today, in response to Padungan assemblyman Chong Chieng Jen, who questioned the selection of committee members.
He pointed out that one of the committee members, Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How, is an independent assemblyman known for championing Native Customary Rights (NCR) land issues.
“If we were not open-minded, why would we include him? We know that among the major issues faced by the people are land-related matters, and the government takes this seriously.
“That is why we ensured the composition of the select committee consists of highly qualified individuals capable of ensuring the Sarawak Ombudsman moves forward successfully,” he said.
Juanda described the establishment of the committee as a historic milestone, noting that Sarawak remains the only state or region in Malaysia to have its own ombudsman institution.
He said the federal government has yet to establish a similar body despite discussions on a national ombudsman dating back to 1972.
“Sarawak is moving far ahead, on par with developed nations, where complaints involving maladministration and abuse of power are scrutinised and corrective action is taken,” he said.
According to him, the DUN’s approval of the motion to establish the Special Select Committee under Section 42(3) of the Sarawak Ombudsman Ordinance 2023 would ensure proper oversight of the ombudsman’s annual reports and recommendations.
He explained that the committee would monitor whether recommendations, reprimands and improvements proposed by the Ombudsman are implemented by the government.
“In other words, any findings arising from public complaints that are investigated by the Ombudsman and found to have merit will be reviewed by this committee to ensure appropriate action is taken,” he said.
Juanda said the move reflects Sarawak’s commitment to good governance, transparency, accountability and the rule of law.
