Ombudsman pushes for stronger understanding of procurement rules to prevent maladministration
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Ombudsman (ORI) is pushing for a stronger understanding of procurement regulations and governance to prevent maladministration within ministries, agencies, and regional governments.
ORI Vice Chairman Rahmadi Indra Tektona stated that maladministration in a number of cases can be triggered by ignorance of procurement rules and governance, rather than solely by the intention to commit a violation.
“Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the dissemination of information and socialisation so that the understanding of implementers at the central and regional levels is more evenly distributed,” Rahmadi said during a meeting with the National Public Procurement Agency (LKPP) in Jakarta on Wednesday, as confirmed on Thursday.
He encouraged strengthening collaboration and information exchange with the LKPP regarding issues and reports in the procurement process at ministries, agencies, and regional governments.
“We are carrying out prevention from the outset because we want this oversight to have a greater impact on the public,” he said.
ORI member Syafrida Rasahan expressed hope that inter-agency cooperation could be realised through human resource training. According to her, training is necessary to enhance the capacity and understanding of Ombudsman personnel regarding the procurement of goods and services.
She noted that the use of electronic catalogues in the procurement process has not completely closed the gaps for potential violations. “This collaboration is necessary because the procurement model using electronic catalogues still has areas that need to be monitored,” she said.
Head of the National Public Procurement Agency (LKPP) Sarah Sadiqa stated her readiness to collaborate with the Ombudsman, including through the exchange of information and data. “We are open if the Ombudsman needs something or analysis. Hopefully, this can be of greater assistance in the future,” said Sarah.