Sarawak Ombudsman ensures accountability of public agencies, says Kota Sentosa rep

KUCHING (Jan 8): The Sarawak Ombudsman plays a vital role in ensuring public agencies are held accountable for service failures, rather than placing responsibility solely on elected representatives, said Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap.

Speaking during the dialogue session at the ‘Forum on Strengthening the Ombudsman Institution in Sarawak’ here, Yap said there is a common misconception that all issues within a constituency fall under the purview of assemblymen.

“Not every problem in an area is the fault of the YB.

“However, the public is right to bring complaints to their elected representative, and it is the YB’s duty to ensure government agencies and authorised parties carry out their roles properly,” he said.

Yap explained that assemblymen are responsible for following up issues with the relevant authorities, enforcing accountability, and guiding the public on the correct channels and processes.

This ensures problems are resolved efficiently, sustainably and not merely on a case-by-case basis.

Yap noted that matters involving staffing, operations and enforcement fall under the respective agencies and ministries, not assemblymen.

“The Sarawak Ombudsman provides the appropriate channel for accountability when public agencies fail to act, ignore Talikhidmat complaints, delay responses, or provide inaccurate information,” he added.

Yap highlighted the Ombudsman’s independent status, with direct reporting to the Sarawak Legislative Assembly, as a key factor in strengthening transparency, improving public service delivery, and enhancing public trust in government administration.