The Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) unanimously approved the motion to establish a Special Select Committee under Section 42(3) of the Sarawak Ombudsman Ordinance 2023.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Juanda Jaya said six assemblymen were appointed to the committee pursuant to Standing Order 74.
The committee comprises Lingga assemblywoman Dayang Noorazah Awang Sohor as chairman, Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How, Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap, Tebedu assemblyman Simon Sinang Bada, Ngemah assemblyman Anyi Jana and Tellian assemblyman Royston Valentine.
“As intended by the ordinance, the ombudsman is established to ensure that public administration in Sarawak is anchored on fairness, transparency and integrity.
“As an independent and impartial body, the ombudsman is entrusted with addressing grievances, promoting good governance and safeguarding the rights of any person in their dealings with public service agencies in Sarawak,” he said when tabling the motion in State Legislative Assembly today.
Juanda said the appointments were not merely nominations, but involved qualified and competent individuals selected based on their capabilities and commitment.
“Together, these honourable members bring diverse expertise and proven dedication to public service. Their collective experience will ensure that the Special Select Committee is well-equipped to uphold integrity, accountability and good governance in Sarawak,” he added.
He said the appointments would preserve the principles of checks and balances while empowering Sarawak’s public service to continue achieving excellence and delivering better services to the people.
Juanda added that the appointments also reflect the government’s commitment to fulfil its election promises as outlined in the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) manifesto during the 15th Sarawak election, particularly in ensuring an efficient and high-integrity administration as a catalyst for Sarawak’s development.
“It is important that the ombudsman’s findings remain transparent and accessible to the people, while this august House carries out its oversight function over the ombudsman’s performance and the actions taken in exercising its functions and powers,” he said.
