KUCHING: The Sarawak civil service must view public feedback and criticism as an opportunity to improve their service delivery system.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg noted that an administration with integrity is not one that never makes mistakes, but rather one that is ready to accept criticism, act transparently, and continuously make improvements.

“The success of a government administration is measured not only by the policies or procedures established, but through the experience of the people in receiving fast, fair, quality, and reliable services.

“When the public is confident in government delivery, confidence in public institutions will continue to be strengthened,” he said when delivering his speech during the Sarawak Integrity Day 2026 Celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Wednesday.

He added that the Sarawak Ombudsman was also established to ensure that the grievances of the people continue to be heard through an organized and independent channel, thereby helping to identify system weaknesses, present recommendations for improvement, and strengthen accountability in government administration.

Meanwhile, the Sarawak Premier said that the role of Certified Integrity Officers (CeIO) is vital in ensuring that the culture of integrity continues to be reinforced within the civil service.

According to him, CeIOs function as catalysts or agents for cultivating integrity within organizations and act as facilitators, besides helping to strengthen compliance, governance, and risk management.

Therefore, he urged every head of department to provide appropriate support to CeIOs so that they can carry out their responsibilities professionally and effectively.

“A civil service with integrity can only be established when every member of the service understands that the trust borne is for the people,” he explained. — UKASnews

Prepared By: Ahmad Daniel Faiz
Photos: Ibanez Jeffery & Shahril Haqim
Translator: Ryan Lim