Clear safeguards must be in place to ensure the proposed Sarawak Padi and Rice Board does not become a bloated bureaucracy or be open to abuse of power.
Bawang Assan assemblyman Wong Soon Koh said the legislation should include clear accountability mechanisms to uphold transparency and public confidence.
“Major decisions involving borrowings, disposal of assets, incorporation of companies, or major investments should require prior approval from the minister or the State Cabinet.
“The Board’s accounts must also be audited annually by independent auditors and tabled before this House, with annual reports detailing its financial position, activities, achievements and future plans,” he said.
He said this when debating in support of the Sarawak Padi and Rice Board Bill, 2026, during the DUN sitting today (May 12).
Wong added that strict conflict-of-interest provisions must be enforced, with board members and officers required to declare their interests and refrain from participating in decisions where personal interests are involved.
He said any abuse of position, corruption or misconduct must be dealt with firmly under the law.
“Procurement and tender processes must be transparent and subject to proper financial procedures and internal audits.
“Public confidence can only be maintained if the Board operates with integrity, transparency and accountability,” he said.
