KUCHING: The state’s Integrity and Ombudsman Unit (UNION) has been given the mandate to oversee, investigate and seek resolutions on matters pertaining to maladministration, bureaucracy and red tape in the public sector.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg hence demanded that all ministries or agencies give their fullest support and cooperation as well as provide detailed information as required by UNION.
He made this announcement at the ‘Majlis Amanat Perdana Integriti (MAPI) 2022 programme at RH Hotel, Sibu on Monday (Feb 28).
His speech was read by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
“Many people tend to believe that all the ombudsman does is to handle complaints and nothing else.
“This view is, at best, too simplistic or an old-school notion. The ombudsman is rightfully deemed to be the leader in building better public administration and bridging the gap between the public and the government.
“Above all, the ombudsman promotes good governance, accountability and transparency through the oversight of government administration and service delivery,” he pointed out.
Since the establishment of UNION in 2018, the chief minister mentioned that he has been monitoring closely how well the unit has undertaken its role as the executive ombudsman.
“Thus far, I am indeed pleased with the efforts and proactive actions taken by UNION, in particular the functions of ombudsman, but there is always room for improvement, especially in terms of legislation,” he said.
