Integrity, good governance key to Sarawak’s development, says Deputy Premier

KUCHING (April 1): Integrity and strong governance are key to Sarawak’s transformation into a developed and respected state by 2030, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

He said integrity must go beyond slogans and become a daily practice among civil servants, particularly in departments handling large-scale public funds and infrastructure projects.

“This is more than a ceremonial gathering.

“It is a celebration of our shared commitment to integrity, accountability and excellence in public service,” he said when officiating the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) Sarawak Integrity Day 2026 here.

Dr Sim said Sarawak’s progress over the past decade has significantly changed perceptions, with the state now gaining recognition and respect from other parts of Malaysia.

He highlighted that integrity and discipline in execution are critical under the state’s development agenda, noting that proper governance not only curbs corruption but also prevents abuse of power, wastage and breaches of trust.

“A well-governed administration ensures transparency, accountability and public confidence,” he said.

Dr Sim also pointed to the importance of fair remuneration and recognition for civil servants, noting that better pay can help reduce the risk of unethical behaviour while motivating officers to perform with integrity.

Drawing from his own experience, he said values and culture play an essential role in shaping ethical conduct, citing the healthcare sector as an example of managing large budgets with minimal integrity issues.

“We must learn what makes systems work — why some sectors can handle large funds with high integrity. It is about values, culture and accountability,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr Sim commended DID Sarawak for achieving MS ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 37001:2016 certifications, describing them as recognition of the department’s commitment to quality management and anti-corruption practices.

“These certifications show that DID Sarawak is striving to be a beacon of integrity and excellence in the state’s development landscape,” he said.

Dr Sim also reminded all officers to strictly adhere to transparent procurement processes and standard operating procedures (SOPs), especially after DID Sarawak was recognised as a technical department under Treasury Instruction 182.

“Transparent and fair processes not only improve efficiency and value for money, but also reduce opportunities for misconduct and strengthen public trust,” he said.

He urged DID personnel to uphold integrity and professionalism in delivering services, stressing that public trust must be earned through consistent performance.

“People must trust you the same way they trust doctors — that trust is built over time through integrity and responsibility,” he added.

Also present were State Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary Datu Elizabeth Loh and DID Sarawak director Datu Ir Ts Ahmad Denney Ahmad Fauzi.