Sarawak’s State Attorney-General’s Chambers has launched a drafting manual intended to make proposed State laws more complete and consistent before they reach the legal office. The manual gives public-service officers a common process for preparing legislation and amendments, including structural standards, procedural steps and the background documents that must accompany a submission. The move follows concerns that some earlier proposals arrived with little more than a one-page outline. For departments, the change is less about announcing a new law than tightening the route by which one is prepared. The chambers also pointed to digital technology, environmental regulation and the green economy as areas where legal officers will need stronger specialist knowledge as Sarawak’s policy work expands.

Sarawak Premier Abang Johari says investors are now scrutinising governance, transparency and integrity before deciding where to invest — not just physical infrastructure. [image: 1786064908262-premier1.jpg] Speaking at the Integrity and Excellence Day of the Sarawak Construction Industry 2026 (IECONS 2026) at CIDB Sarawak Complex in Kuching, the Premier said strong institutions, transparent processes, policy stability and integrity levels have become deciding factors for investment destinations. "Today, investors no longer look at physical facilities alone. They also assess the strength of institutions, transparency of processes, policy stability and the level of integrity," he said. He stressed that integrity must be built through strong systems, transparent processes, and principled leadership — not just enforcement after something goes wrong. [image: 1786064908490-premier2-resized.jpg] Abang Johari said Sarawak will continue strengthening governance through digitalised procurement, improved audit systems, and better risk management. He also highlighted the state's ombudsman system, with officers trained alongside MACC to be placed across government agencies. The Premier said the effort aligns with the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) 2024–2028, emphasising that integrity has become a strategic advantage in the global economy. Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi also spoke at the event, saying successful projects should not be measured by speed alone, but by quality, cost, and value delivered to the people. Location: CIDB Sarawak Complex, Kuching Details: IECONS 2026 | Premier's address on governance & integrity Source: DayakDaily What do you think — is Sarawak moving in the right direction on governance?