SIBU: Government officials must have the courage to provide accurate advice on laws and regulations to politicians as well as the public.
In stressing this, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya said there may be a few members of parliament (MP) who have a tendency to give instructions to the Resident’s Office, even if these instructions are not correct.
“What should you do? Provide advice. Inform the MPs that this goes against the law. If the MP insists on it, make sure they put it in writing or give written instructions.
“This does not mean we are opposing. We need to say it in a good manner. It’s tough to do, but if we want to progress into a developed and integrity-driven nation, we must practice the rule of law, where rules must be obeyed,” he said.
He said this at the Enhancing Integrity Project (EIP) Programme ‘Membudayakan Integriti Dalam Institusi Keluarga sempena Hari Keluarga Pentadbiran Bahagian Sibu’ at SMI Park, Saturday (Nov 4).
He emphasised that corruption does not just involve money but also abuse of power, and many find it difficult to resist the temptation of abuse of power.
“When we find it difficult to resist the temptations of abuse of power, remember our family members at home. Because if something bad happens to us, it affects our entire family, our wives, our children, our siblings.
“The situation becomes even worse when they are found guilty by the court, causing them not to receive their pensions even after serving for decades,” he said.
He also said that the state government takes integrity seriously, leading to the establishment of the Sarawak Integrity and Ombudsman Unit (UNIONS), which has specific powers to ensure Sarawak continues to progress and places integrity as a top priority.
“In the upcoming State Legislative Assembly (DUN) session, the state government will introduce the first Ombudsman ordinance in the country, which can be implemented due to political stability in the state,” he added.
Also present were the UNIONS Director Semawi Mohamad, Acting Sibu Resident Christopher Ranggau Unting, and others.
