THE time has come for the Malaysian Ombudsman to be set up, to hear and investigate cases of maladministration, said Dewan Rakyat Speaker Mohamad Ariff Md Yusof.

He said democratic nations worldwide have accepted the role of such a body, and as such, Malaysia needs to get on board.

“I cannot comment further because this is related to policy. It is up to the executive to make a decision on the establishment of an ombudsman’s office,” he said, adding that he believes it is time Parliament embraces the idea.

He was speaking to Bernama during the Speaker’s Lecture Series programme held in the Parliament building last night. The event saw a sharing session on the functions of an ombudsman, presented by New Zealand Chief Ombudsman Peter Boshier.

Citing New Zealand as an example, Ariff said its ombudsman functioned as an investigator and Parliament researcher with the authority to hear matters concerning maladministration.

Boshier said he would be honoured if given the opportunity to boost Malaysia-New Zealand ties in relation to the idea of setting up an ombudsman’s office here.

“I am thrilled that Malaysia is looking to implement an ombudsman. In all cases, its main role is to protect people against rights violations, power abuse and maladministration.” – Bernama, September 20, 2019.