NADI, Fiji: Betong Member of Parliament, Datuk Dr Richard Rapu @ Aman Begri, is among three representatives of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Malaysia attending the Asia-Pacific Regional PAC Workshop here from May 19 to 21.
He said the delegation is led by PAC Chairperson, Datuk Wira Mas Ermieyati Samsudin, who is also the Member of Parliament for Masjid Tanah, along with PAC Secretariat representative, Ahmad Johan Mohd Afandi.
According to Richard, the Asia-Pacific Regional PAC Workshop serves as a platform to strengthen the role and effectiveness of PACs across the region.
“In particular, it aims to ensure government financial accountability, share regional best practices, and explore strategies for follow-up actions on PAC reports.
“The workshop also aims to maximise the use of parliamentary tools, build regional cooperation networks, and support improved governance and integrity within the public sector,” he told Suara Sarawak today.
Earlier, in his opening address, Speaker of the Parliament of Fiji, Filimone Jitoko, stated that PACs are empowered to conduct public hearings, summon witnesses, and receive submissions from ministries, departments, and members of the public.
“Through this, PACs are able to identify weaknesses in financial control and make recommendations to enhance governance and improve service delivery across government.
“The PAC is one of, if not the most important, component of parliamentary oversight.
“Each of you plays a crucial role in the work of the committee, which is accountable to your parliament or assembly, which in turn is accountable to the people it serves.
“The PAC distinguishes itself from other parliamentary committees through its singular focus on financial oversight.
“While other standing committees may review policies, legislation, or departmental performance, the PAC is dedicated to scrutinising reports from the Auditor-General,” he added.
The key role of the PAC is to ensure that public funds are used efficiently, effectively, and for their intended purpose.
This critical responsibility places the PAC at the heart of the country’s democratic accountability framework.
Jitoko also informed participants about the recent establishment of a new Public Accounts Subcommittee.
The three-day workshop is co-organised by the United Kingdom Commonwealth Parliamentary Association in collaboration with the Parliament of Fiji and is attended by 37 delegates from 11 legislatures.
