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Sarawak Ombudsman denies DAP allegations of delays, lack of transparency
File photo of Wisma Masja II, where the Office of the Sarawak Ombudsman is located. – Photo from Wikimedia Commons
KUCHING (July 19): The Office of the Sarawak Ombudsman (OSO) has refuted allegations by Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) chairman Chong Chieng Jen that the state government delayed and lacked transparency in tabling a report from the Ombudsman unit.
In a statement today, the OSO described Chong's claims, which were reported by Free Malaysia Today on July 16, as 'factually incorrect and legally misconceived'.
'The OSO views the allegation that no hearing was done as factually incorrect and legally misconceived,' said the office.
In the report, Chong had also stated that the process of the Sarawak Ombudsman presenting its first report in the State Legislative Assembly had been very slow and that there had been 'no hearings'.
In response, the OSO clarified that in carrying out its duties, the Ombudsman is empowered to conduct investigations, make preliminary inquiries, recommend mediation, and produce reports — but not to hold adjudicative hearings.
They explained that the role of the Ombudsman is defined under Section 12 of the Sarawak Ombudsman Ordinance 2023 (SOO 2023).
'To receive, investigate, and resolve complaints relating to maladministration by Sarawak state public service agencies; promote good governance and accountability; recommend remedial or corrective measures based on findings; and monitor the implementation of such recommendations,' OSO stated.
In further compliance with Section 42 of the SOO 2023, the OSO said it had submitted an Interim Report to the Minister responsible for the Ombudsman portfolio, covering the operational period from Aug 1, 2024 to Dec 31, 2024.
'This report is intended for tabling in the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly as required by law,' the statement said.
They added that a full Annual Report for 2025 will be compiled and submitted in due course to the State Legislature in accordance with the statutory framework.
The OSO also reminded members of the public that complaints of maladministration against any Sarawak state public service agency may be formally lodged in writing with the Chief Ombudsman at the following address: Office of the Sarawak Ombudsman, Level 17, Wisma Masja II, Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak.
'All bona fide complaints that fall within the jurisdiction, powers 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,' they explained. Chong Chieng Jen Sarawak ombudsman transparency
