KUCHING: Building a generation with integrity is no easy task, but it remains a priority for the Sarawak Government to ensure the state’s development is supported by strong moral foundations and good governance.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman), Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya, said one of the biggest challenges in cultivating a culture of integrity is human nature – people tend to forget easily, and there are groups that attempt to spread negative values within society.
“That’s why we must instil a sense of responsibility from the school level. Integrity starts with feeling responsible, and this shapes individuals who will become valuable assets in the future,” he said.
He made these remarks during an interview on the ‘Juh Randau’ programme at the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS) Studio here on Thursday.
Elaborating, he stated that the Sarawak Integrity and Ombudsman Unit carries out various grassroots initiatives, including in schools, villages, longhouses, government offices and the private sector, in collaboration with local and international agencies such as the United Nations (UN).
These efforts, he said, are further strengthened through the Sarawak Ombudsman Ordinance, which was passed two years ago, making Sarawak the first state in Malaysia to have a specific legal instrument to investigate complaints of administrative misconduct and abuse of power in government agencies.
“The public can lodge complaints directly with the Ombudsman. However, it is crucial to provide evidence, not just accusations.
“We have the power to investigate, and if there is no cooperation, legal action can be taken,” he stressed.
