Sabah introduces outcome-based integrity approach to strengthen governance, curb corruption

KOTA KINABALU, Oct 6 — The Sabah government has launched an Outcome-Based Integrity (OBI) initiative aimed at creating a robust and corruption-free administrative system. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor outlined the three core objectives of OBI: minimizing leakage and misconduct, boosting the effectiveness and transparency of public service delivery, and enhancing public and investor confidence.

He emphasized that every aspect of OBI must yield measurable outcomes, stating that integrity is not merely a slogan but a cornerstone of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan. OBI's metrics will be included in the annual Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for department heads and heads of state-owned enterprises, with administrative performance evaluated by the reduction in leakages and service efficiency.

At the 2026 Integrity, Governance and Anti-Corruption Convention (KITA), Hajiji stressed that every public expenditure should yield maximum value for money and directly benefit the population without being siphoned off through leaks. He also highlighted the shift from a reactive governance model to a proactive, predictive, and preventive approach based on risk assessments.

The state government plans to bolster digitalization, data analytics, and behavioral insights while integrating OBI into agency performance evaluations, expanding the role of Certified Integrity Officers (CeIOs), and strengthening Integrity Units to cultivate a new generation of integrity-oriented leaders. Over 2,500 participants from across Sabah are attending the two-day KITA 2026, underscoring a shared dedication to enhancing governance, integrity, and anti-corruption practices.

Since its inception in 2023, KITA has led to the appointment of 10 CeIOs, the development of i-Adu, i-DIMSS, and i-STANS applications, and the certification of 17 Sabah state agency officers in Professional Integrity Assurance and Management (CPIAM) through Universiti Sains Malaysia. The Sabah Integrity and Governance Division (BIGoNS) under the State Secretary’s Office has also earned the UNGGUL recognition under the Integrity and Governance Management System (SPINE) certification by the Malaysian Institute of Integrity.