The proposed Code of Ethics and Conduct for Legislative Council (LegCo) members is an important step towards strengthening the integrity, accountability, credibility and professionalism of the institution, said LegCo member Yang Berhormat Mohammad bin Abdullah @ Lim Swee Ann.

Speaking during the LegCo meeting, Yang Berhormat Mohammad said the proposed code goes beyond setting standards of conduct for members, describing it as a broader commitment to ensuring national institutions maintain high standards and continue to earn public trust.

He said the initiative emphasised good governance, integrity and accountability, including efforts to combat corruption and abuse of power. According to him, institutions must continuously improve and raise their standards, with the proposed code serving as a means of strengthening credibility and effectiveness.

Yang Berhormat Mohammad stressed that members should lead by example by combining knowledge with good character, wisdom with trustworthiness, courage with responsibility and leadership with integrity.

He noted that legislative codes of conduct in other countries commonly cover areas such as declaration of interests, acceptance of gifts and benefits, conflicts of interest and responsibilities to uphold the credibility of institutions.

However, he said Brunei should not simply replicate foreign systems, but instead adopt relevant best practices and adapt them to the country’s needs, values and the principles of Malay Islamic Monarchy, while taking into account national interest.
The proposed code, he added, should not be viewed as a mechanism for finding fault with members, but as a guide for them to carry out their responsibilities more effectively.

While members must retain the freedom to speak, question, criticise and express differing views, such freedoms should be exercised with responsibility, courtesy, factual accuracy and respect for the institution, with the interests and welfare of the nation and its people remaining the priority.

He said strong institutions and good governance are closely linked to social stability, economic confidence and sustainable national development.

Yang Berhormat Mohammad expressed support for the proposed code, saying it should mark the beginning of a stronger culture of integrity, trust, professionalism, accountability, courtesy and responsibility within the council.

(news source: Borneo Bulletin ; pic source: Info Foto, Jbt Penerangan)