Sarawak Ombudsman makes history as first Associate Member of Southeast Asian Ombudsman Forum

Abdul Ghafur (centre) and officials from the Sarawak Integrity and Ombudsman Unit receiving the Certificate of Acceptance during the SEAOF Full Members’ Meeting held at Conrad Manila on June 16, 2026.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, June 17: The Sarawak Ombudsman has been formally and unanimously accepted as the first Associate Member of the Southeast Asian Ombudsman Forum (SEAOF), marking a historic milestone for the regional body and elevating Sarawak’s role in advancing administrative justice and good governance in Southeast Asia.

According to a media release today, the landmark decision was made on June 16, 2026 during the SEAOF Full Members’ Meeting held at Conrad Manila, where member institutions collectively endorsed Sarawak’s admission.

Sarawak’s entry as SEAOF’s first Associate Member is expected to open new avenues for institutional collaboration, capacity building, and knowledge exchange with established Ombudsman bodies in the region.

It also positions the Sarawak Ombudsman to contribute more actively to regional dialogue on emerging governance challenges, while reinforcing collective efforts to improve transparency, accountability, and public trust across Southeast Asia.

SEAOF, established in 2019, serves as a regional platform to strengthen cooperation among Ombudsman institutions, enhance administrative justice systems, and promote the exchange of best practices across Southeast Asia.

Its current full members comprise the Ombudsman institutions of Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Timor-Leste.

The acceptance ceremony featured a presentation by Sarawak Chief Ombudsman Dato Sri Abdul Ghafur Shariff, who outlined the institution’s mandate, strategic direction, and aspirations for deeper regional collaboration.

His presentation underscored Sarawak’s commitment to strengthening accountability, integrity, and effectiveness in public service delivery.

The Certificate of Acceptance was presented by Atty. Jose M. Balmeo Jr., formally signifying Sarawak’s admission into the SEAOF community.

The ceremony was witnessed by Deputy Minister in the Premier of Sarawak Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya, reflecting the Sarawak government’s continued commitment to promoting integrity, transparency, and good governance while strengthening international cooperation. — DayakDaily