KUCHING: The Sarawak Ombudsman’s full Annual Report for 2025 will be compiled and submitted to the State Legislative Assembly as required by law.
The Office of the Sarawak Ombudsman (OSO) said the report will follow the statutory framework under the Sarawak Ombudsman Ordinance 2023 (SOO 2023), covering its activities throughout the year.
It clarified this in response to recent remarks by Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) chairman Chong Chieng Jen, who questioned the office’s transparency and alleged inaction.
“In compliance with Section 42 of the SOO 2023, the OSO had submitted an Interim Report to the minister charged with the responsibility for the Ombudsman portfolio, which covered the operational period from August 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024.
“This report is intended for laying before the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN), as required by law,” said Office of the Chief Ombudsman in a statement,
Chong, in an interview with Free Malaysia Today published July 16, claimed there had been prolonged delays and a lack of transparency involving the Ombudsman unit.
He further alleged that no hearings had been conducted, and cast doubt on whether “any real work” had been done by the OSO.
The OSO described Chong’s remarks as “factually incorrect and legally misconceived”, citing that hearings are not part of its statutory functions.
It explained that unlike courts or tribunals, the Ombudsman does not conduct adjudicative hearings but carries out investigations and preliminary inquiries.
It added that among its core functions are investigating complaints of maladministration, promoting good governance, recommending corrective action, and monitoring implementation.
“In performing these duties, the Ombudsman is empowered to carry out investigations, conduct preliminary inquiries, recommend mediation, and produce reports—but not to conduct adjudicative hearings.
“Since its establishment, the OSO has received complaints and carried out inquiries and acted accordingly,” it added.
The statement further encouraged the public to lodge formal written complaints of maladministration involving Sarawak state public service agencies to the Chief Ombudsman at Wisma Masja II, Petra Jaya.
“All bona fide complaints that fall within the jurisdictional power and functions of the Sarawak Ombudsman will be investigated in accordance with the procedures and safeguards established under the SOO 2023, including the protection of complainants and the confidentiality of proceedings.
“The OSO remains committed to fulfilling its mandate to uphold integrity, accountability, and transparency in the Sarawak public administration system.”
