KUCHING: Sarawak’s Integrity and Ombudsman Unit is playing a key role in strengthening integrity and accountability within the state administration by ensuring audit findings are given serious attention and addressed effectively.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state had also intensified training for officers in collaboration with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), with integrity officers placed across government agencies.
He said these measures were aimed at improving governance, particularly among agencies responsible for driving Sarawak’s development agenda.
“Sarawak already has an Ombudsman, and we have trained our officers together with MACC. Our officers are also placed in all government integrity units.
“Through the Ombudsman, we place serious emphasis on audit reports. Sometimes, the weaknesses highlighted in audit reports are not given sufficient attention, and this is one of our shortcomings,” he said.
He said this during the Sarawak Construction Industry Integrity and Excellence Day 2026 (IECONS 2026) at Convention Centre CIDB here today.
Abang Johari said Sarawak’s approach to project implementation had also improved with the adoption of technology, including three-dimensional (3D) modelling and Building Information Modelling (BIM) systems.
He said these technologies enabled more accurate planning, including calculating required materials and estimating project costs before implementation.
“Previously, when developing buildings, we only had plans, but today, plans can be viewed through 3D technology as well as BIM systems, where you can calculate all the materials that you need in building that particular building and your estimate is almost there.
“Therefore, once you have your budget, you can deliver the product according to the budget,” he said.
However, he acknowledged that project costs could still be affected by external factors such as imported material prices, international trade conditions and currency fluctuations.
He said methods such as hedging also help reduce the risks associated with fluctuations in construction material prices, but stressed that the most important factor in ensuring the success of any project remains the integrity of the individuals managing it.
“Integrity comes from the heart. A good system is important, but ultimately it is the honesty and trustworthiness of individuals that determine whether a project is implemented transparently and benefits the people,” he said.
He added that Sarawak will continue strengthening governance through the digitalisation of procurement processes, improvements to audit systems, better risk management, and the adoption of technology to enhance transparency and efficiency.
