SIBU: All government agencies have been instructed to implement projects timely, economically and successfully based on proper processes and procedures.

       Speaking at the launching of Majlis Amanah Perdana Integriti on Monday (Feb 28), Chief Minister Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state government was committed in ensuring project procurement was based on open tender as it did not want "unethical" dealings in any procurement.

       "All agencies must strengthen their procurement processes and procedures.

       "In this regard, procurement must be undertaken on the basis of transparency and integrity to avoid unnecessary additional costs, which may hike-up the costs of works or products.

       "Such occurrences would invariably mean losses to the rakyat – in terms of 'wang rakyat' and development for the rakyat," he said in his text which was read by his deputy, Datuk Amar Douglas Unggah.

       Abang Johari however warned of accepting the lowest tenderer though there was a need to review the process to ensure that projects are implemented according to schedule, specification and within budget.

       "By awarding the project to the lowest tenderer could, in this instance, lead to unnecessary delays and a host of other financial and technical issues.

       "Hence, the implementing agencies must undertake a proper evaluation of tender to accept the best tender," he said.

       He said a failed project would be a great loss to the rakyat who had expected the government to deliver the project.

       "I am utterly serious about this matter which is why I keep on repeating the same issue.

       "I instruct that all agencies adhere to my directive that projects be implemented timely, economically and successfully based on proper processes and procedures," he said.

       Abang Johari also wanted all agencies to put a stop on illegal activities that caused the state to incur huge amounts of losses.

       "I instruct that stern action be taken accordingly by the respective agencies," he said, adding that the audit unit had a very tough and responsible task to carry out audit exercise on ministries, departments and agencies to check on any issues that are serious in nature involving criminal acts, for further action by the relevant authorities.

       As for performing agencies, he said he had instructed the state integrity and ombudsman unit to identify and acknowledge them with a special award (accounting best practice award).