The proposed Code of Ethics and Conduct for Legislative Council (LegCo) members should be referred to a special committee for further review and refinement before being formally adopted, said LegCo member Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa bin Pengiran Haji Aliuddin.
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa stressed that the proposed amendment was not intended to reject the government’s initiative to introduce a Code of Ethics and Conduct. Instead, he reaffirmed his full support for establishing a clear, comprehensive and credible Code aimed at strengthening integrity, accountability and public confidence in the Council.
He said the Code of Ethics and Conduct would serve as a fundamental governance document outlining the standards of conduct, responsibilities, obligations and ethical principles expected of its members.
Given its importance, Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa said the draft should undergo more detailed consideration before being adopted by the Council.
He proposed that a special committee be given sufficient time to examine each provision, including matters relating to ethical and integrity principles, declaration of interests, conflicts of interest, confidentiality of information, complaints procedures, investigation mechanisms, disciplinary action and review mechanisms.
The committee could also seek additional views and clarification from relevant stakeholders, including the Attorney General’s Chambers, the Narcotics Control Bureau and other parties, to ensure the proposed Code is robust, practical and consistent with national laws.
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa clarified that the draft submitted to the Council was not intended to be a perfect or final document, but was prepared as an initial proposal to facilitate discussion on the need for a formal Code of Ethics and Conduct for LegCo members.
He acknowledged that the draft was developed based on his study and understanding of good practices adopted by other Parliaments, and that certain aspects could still be improved, refined or expanded.
He also acknowledged the need for broader consultation, including with members and stakeholders.
However, he expressed appreciation to the government for accepting the draft and supporting its presentation to the Council, describing the move as a reflection of the confidence placed in the initiative.
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa said the draft could serve as a working document to facilitate further discussion and proposed that it be referred to a Special Committee for comprehensive consideration.
He said this would provide members with an opportunity to examine each provision in greater depth, submit their views and propose improvements, ensuring that the final Code reflects a collective position and is aligned with the Constitution, prevailing laws and principles of good governance.
He formally proposed that the motion be amended to allow the draft Code of Ethics and Conduct to be referred to a committee for refinement and consolidation before being resubmitted to the Council for consideration and decision.
Yang Berhormat Pengiran Haji Isa urged members to support the amendment, stressing that it would help ensure the eventual Code fulfils the aspirations of the Council.
(news source: Borneo Bulletin ; pic source: Info Foto, Jbt Penerangan)
