‘Lack of opposition representation in S’wak PAC shows scant checks, balances’

KUCHING: The recent findings by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) Sarawak regarding weaknesses in the management and implementation of state government projects reflected the lack of checks and balances, said Michael Kong.

The special assistant to Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) chairman Chong Chieng Jen said the lack of opposition representation in the committee had hindered its ability in providing robust checks and balances. He said unlike the Parliament PAC, which operates on a bipartisan structure, the current composition of Sarawak’s legislation in the PAC Sarawak had no opposition representation.

“The lack of opposition members in the committee underscores the critical need for accountability and in public spending. The absence of opposition assemblymen in the Sarawak PAC raises concerns about the effectiveness of oversight and scrutiny,” he said.

Kong was responding to the recent PAC report on the management of the upgrading and rehabilitation of dilapidated school buildings under the Education Ministry, Public Works Department (JKR) and the JKR in Sarawak and Sabah.

He called on PAC Sarawak to include opposition members to enhance transparency and accountability in public expenditure.

“It is imperative for the Sarawak government to consider reforms to the current PAC Sarawak structure by introducing a bipartisan approach that includes opposition members in the committee as this would enhance transparency and accountability in public expenditure.

“Furthermore, appointing a member of the opposition to chair the PAC Sarawak would ensure impartial leadership and strengthen the committee’s ability to fulfil its oversight mandate effectively,” said Kong.