KUCHING — Civil servants must abandon the culture of silence and actively report any workplace misconduct to uphold integrity, accountability, and transparency within Sarawak’s public sector.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman), Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya, issued the call during the Integrity and Innovation Day celebration organised by the Sarawak Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) on Wednesday.
He likened misconduct to a cancer that, if left untreated, can spread uncontrollably and weaken the entire organisation.
“We must be brave in speaking the truth and report wrongdoings without fear or favour,” said Dr Juanda.
“Rejecting the culture of silence is essential — any system or policy will fail if people involved are dishonest, unethical, and lack integrity.”
He further emphasised the need for early action against problematic individuals in public agencies to prevent misconduct from escalating to an unmanageable level.
Touching on the importance of honest reporting, Dr Juanda clarified that negative reports should not be seen as a sign of weakness but as a step toward transparency and progress.
“In particular, transparency in environmental reporting allows the public to evaluate and participate in conservation efforts. Accurate information fosters trust in government actions,” he added.
His remarks underscored Sarawak’s growing focus on governance reforms that prioritise accountability and the fight against corruption at all levels of the civil service.
Among those present at the event were Environmental Quality Controller for Sarawak NREB, Datu Jack Liam, General Manager of the Sarawak Forest Corporation (SFC), Abang Arabi Abang Aimran, and Chief Administrator of the Sarawak Ombudsman, Wan Mohamad Wan Drahman.
The event served as a platform to promote ethical leadership, innovation, and public service excellence within Sarawak’s environmental governance sector.
