Sarawak is set to become the first state in Malaysia to introduce a dedicated anti-corruption framework through the Sarawak Anti-Corruption Strategy (SACS), aimed at strengthening integrity, transparency and good governance across the state.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya said the initiative comes at a crucial time as Sarawak experiences rapid economic growth, which must be supported by a strong governance system.
He said the development of SACS would reinforce a culture of integrity, accountability and transparency throughout both the public and private sectors.
“Economic progress without strong integrity values increases the risk of leakages, abuse of power and corruption, ultimately undermining the confidence of the people, investors and strategic partners,” he said.
Juanda stressed that SACS is more than just a policy document, describing it as a collective commitment to ensure every ringgit of public funds is managed responsibly, every decision is made transparently, and every development project delivers meaningful benefits to the people of Sarawak.
He was speaking at the opening of the Pre-Engagement Session on the Development of the Sarawak Anti-Corruption Strategy held at a hotel in Kuching on Monday.
The two-day workshop, which runs until 14 July, is jointly organised by the Sarawak Integrity and Ombudsman Unit (UNIONS) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
Juanda said SACS is not intended to replace the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) 2024–2028, but rather to complement it by taking into account Sarawak’s unique governance landscape, institutional framework and development priorities.
He added that the strategy is also aligned with the principles of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), reinforcing transparency, accountability, public participation and good governance.
Juanda expressed appreciation to UNODC for its continued support and close collaboration in helping the Sarawak Government develop the strategy.
He said he hopes the workshop will serve as a constructive platform for government agencies and stakeholders to exchange views, identify governance challenges and propose practical recommendations to ensure the strategy effectively addresses Sarawak’s specific needs.
Meanwhile, Juanda revealed that he will represent the Sarawak Government in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday to receive the Certificate of Excellence for the Integrity and Governance Management System (SPINE).
The award will be presented by Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, who also serves as Chairman of the Malaysian Institute of Integrity (IIM).
Also present at the event were UNIONS Director Wan Mohamad Wan Drahman and UNODC Country Programme Officer Vickram Ragunath.
