Strong governance, financial transparency and strict accountability mechanisms must form the foundation of the proposed Sarawak Paddy and Rice Board (SPRB), says Daro assemblyman Safiee Ahmad.
He stressed that the establishment of any new statutory body must be accompanied by robust oversight to maintain public trust.
He cautioned that “power without accountability will erode public confidence”, adding that ambitious legislation without disciplined implementation would struggle to achieve its intended objectives.
“The credibility of the Sarawak Paddy and Rice Board will depend not only on its mandate, but also on the discipline of its implementation,” he said when debating in support of the Bill during the DUN Sitting today (May 12).
Safiee noted that the Bill acknowledges additional government expenditure, although the exact cost has yet to be determined, stressing the need for early emphasis on transparent financial management, proper budgeting, audited accounts, measurable key performance indicators (KPIs) and strong anti-corruption safeguards.
“Enforcement provisions under the Bill grant officers significant powers, including investigation authority and access to digital data systems, stressing that such powers must be exercised professionally, responsibly and transparently,” he said.
He added that standard operating procedures, adequate training and a clear complaints mechanism must be established to ensure enforcement strengthens public confidence rather than undermines it.
“Governance clarity is especially crucial as Sarawak moves towards a new institutional framework for its paddy and rice sector,” he said.
