Role, duties of Audit Dept to be expanded to take on ombudsman role, says PM

PUTRAJAYA: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated that the National Audit Department will have expanded roles and responsibilities, including taking on the role of an ombudsman. In addition to conducting audits, the department will now be tasked with looking into other issues such as compliance, adherence to principles, and preventing corruption, negligence, and leaks. Anwar said that this expansion is still being discussed but he believes that it will be beneficial for the department’s role.

The Prime Minister mentioned during a session with department staff on Friday (Sept 1) that the role of the National Audit Department as an ombudsman will be discussed in the upcoming Cabinet meeting. He expressed satisfaction with the department’s performance in identifying issues that need attention and assured that the additional responsibility is only given due to trust and confidence in the department’s ability.

Anwar assured that the audit report, which was not debated in Parliament last year, will be reviewed this year. He emphasized the importance of rectifying weaknesses, correcting violations, and taking action against power abuse. Anwar instructed his ministers, secretaries-general, and directors-general to thoroughly study the report and provide satisfactory responses or actions regarding its findings.

The Prime Minister wants the audit report to be viewed as an significant document and not just another report. He warned that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, the Inland Revenue Board, and other enforcement bodies will be aware if no serious follow-up action is taken. Anwar mentioned that he always viewed the audit report as important, even when he was the Opposition Leader, and he would diligently study it to raise critical issues.

Anwar believes that the Finance Ministry should take the lead in reviewing the report to ensure compliance among departments. He stated that without such a review, the same mistakes will continue to occur each year, rendering the report pointless. Anwar emphasized that issues highlighted in the report should not be taken lightly, and all ministries and agencies, including the Prime Minister’s Department, must provide a response.