PERTH: The Sarawak Ombudsman is expanding its international cooperation efforts following a series of official engagements in Western Australia (WA), including working visits to the Equal Opportunity Commission (EOC) and the Office of the WA Ombudsman.
The delegation, led by Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier Department Integrity and Ombudsman Datuk Murshid DiRaja Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya, was accompanied by Sarawak Chief Ombudsman Datuk Seri Abdul Ghafur Shariff, alongside Sarawak Ombudsman members and officials.
During the visit to the EOC here on Wednesday (Nov 12), the delegation met with WA Commissioner for Equal Opportunity Dr John Byrne, gaining insight into the commission’s complaint handling system, policy frameworks, and resolution mechanisms, particularly in managing discrimination complaints and enhancing public service delivery.
The team also toured the EOC office to observe its operations, workspace layout, and mediation facilities, where comfort and safety for both complainants and officers are prioritised, and the inclusion of staff with disabilities reflects WA’s commitment to genuine equality and inclusivity in its public service environment.
On the same day, the Sarawak delegation was welcomed at the WA Ombudsman’s office by acting Deputy Ombudsman Brianna Lonnie, accompanied by senior officer Shosana Halberg.
Both institutions noted similarities in mandates and approaches, especially in complaint investigations and governance, prompting discussions on cooperation, capacity building, and sharing expertise.
Key outcomes from the visit include the WA Ombudsman office developing training programmes and inviting the Sarawak Ombudsman office to participate, particularly in complaint handling and improving investigation processes, to enhance efficiency and professionalism in ombudsman functions.
The WA Ombudsman office also plans to invite the Sarawak Ombudsman office as an observer at the upcoming Australian and New Zealand Ombudsman Association (ANZOA) meeting, offering opportunities to build networks, exchange views, and learn international best practices.
In a statement, the Sarawak Ombudsman office said the visits are part of its working trip to Australia, reflecting the government’s commitment to integrity, transparency, and accountability, in line with the 2023 Ombudsman Ordinance and PCDS 2030 for efficient and inclusive public service.
