KUCHING, May 13 2026: Tamin state legislative member (SLM) Christopher Gira Sambang stressed that the establishment of the Ombudsman Special Select Committee is a vital step towards strengthening governance, accountability and institutional integrity in Sarawak.
He said the committee is not merely symbolic but serves as an important mechanism to ensure transparency, effective oversight and proper scrutiny of policies, implementation, public expenditure and government administration.
He noted that with the public becoming increasingly educated and having greater access to information, there is a growing expectation for the legislature to function as a credible institution capable of monitoring government performance professionally and effectively.
“With an increasingly informed and aware public, there is a growing expectation for the legislature not only to debate issues but also to function as a credible institution capable of monitoring government performance effectively,” he said when debating the motion on the appointment of a Special Select Committee at the state legislative assembly (SLA).
He highlighted the challenges faced at the grassroots level, particularly in rural areas, saying that such issues such as water supply, delayed infrastructure projects, digital connectivity and public service delivery require more structured and in-depth follow-up beyond conventional debates.
“The proposed committee would enable the August House to carry out more substantive roles including calling relevant agencies for explanations, examining technical reports, engaging stakeholders and recommending institutional improvements,” he explained.
The Tamin Assemblyman further emphasised that the committee would play a crucial role in enhancing transparency and strengthening public confidence in government institutions.
“Transparency builds confidence. Confidence builds stability and stability drives development,” he said.
In addition, he described the committee as a platform to bring the voice of the people into the government’s governance framework, ensuring that public concerns are more effectively represented.
He said the committee would allow for more comprehensive examination of issues affecting ordinary Sarawakians including project delays, implementation weaknesses, bureaucratic challenges, rural infrastructure and service delivery systems.
“The governance reforms must be inclusive and not confined to urban areas but must also reflect the realities and needs of rural communities across Sarawak,” he said.
No comments:
Post a Comment