Political parties, NGOs must subscribe to integrity, good governance – Talib

SIBU: The state government in ensuring high level of integrity and good governance in Sarawak would rope in everyone to subscribe to the philosophy, says Minister in the Chief Minister’s Office (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Talib Zulpilip.

He pointed out that a lot of work has been done with civil servants.

“This effort must now extend to the political groups, the NGOs (nongovernmental organisations), the business sector, and the community.

“The Chief Minister wants the effort to be comprehensive in terms of reach. Definitely this is the logical step in order to move forward. These groups must be involved. Their support and acceptance must be obtained,” Talib told The Borneo Post.

He was asked to comment on Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Paul Low Seng Kuang’s statement lauding the state government on the creation of the Integrity and Ombudsman functions in a ministerial portfolio under the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).

Low, who is in charge of governance and integrity, saw it as ‘one of the most significant steps’ taken by Sarawak.

To Low, this was very important, especially putting Talib in charge, because one could not put in the changes unless there was a strong political will.

On this, Talib, who is Jepak assemblyman, said: “It is indeed very heartening to receive strong support from the federal government through Minister Datuk Paul Low, with respect to the Integrity and Ombudsman functions initiatives of the state government.

“It is most appropriate coming from the Minister and very much welcome. Having someone like Datuk Paul Low to work with is a bonus as far as I am concerned. I must admit the people have been very supportive of this initiative by the Chief Minister.”

He added that the state places high value on integrity and good governance.

“Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg wants to ensure that the administration is transparent, clean, efficient and effective.

“This is essential in order that the development plans we have would be implemented successfully,” Talib stressed.

Dr Jerip presents the Yayasan Sarawak school uniform voucher to a pupil of SK St Gregory Giam. With the assistant minister are (from left) Deputy Kuching Resident Tuah Suni, Ellen and Serian Resident Jonathan Lugoh.