TAWAU: Swearing-in ceremonies for local authority (PBT) councillors will be held at the divisional level in future instead of by individual districts, in a move aimed at strengthening the dissemination of government information.
Sabah Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif said the new approach would also enhance councillors’ understanding of the State Government’s development policies while fostering closer ties among PBT councillors.
“I am confident that programmes such as this will strengthen fellowship among all councillors.
“In future, we will organise this programme at the divisional level so that all councillors have the opportunity to receive information, briefings and input from my ministry as well as other ministries,” he said.
Dr Mohd Arifin said this after officiating the swearing-in ceremony and presenting appointment letters to councillors of the Tawau Municipal Council (MPT), Semporna District Council (MDS) and Kunak District Council (MDK) at a hotel, here, recently.
He said the programme would also provide councillors with a better understanding of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development agenda, including the implementation of SMJ 2.0, enabling its objectives to be effectively understood and implemented.
“Councillors play a vital role as the link between the Government, local authorities and the people, making it essential for them to understand the State Government’s policies and aspirations to ensure effective service delivery,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr Mohd Arifin said his ministry would strengthen its performance monitoring mechanism for local councillors to ensure they carry out their responsibilities effectively in line with the aspirations of Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0.
He said the monitoring would be carried out continuously through divisional leaders, council presidents, district officers and the ministry.
The ministry would also continue its visits to district and municipal councils throughout Sabah to assess the issues and challenges faced by each local authority.
“Today’s visit is my 18th. Through these visits, we are able to identify the challenges faced by each district and find the best solutions to ensure development is enjoyed equitably throughout Sabah,” he said.
Earlier in his speech, Dr Mohd Arifin reminded the newly appointed councillors that their appointments were not merely recognition of their commitment and contributions to society, but also a significant trust that must be discharged with responsibility, dedication and integrity.
He said he was confident their appointments would serve as a catalyst for strengthening development and improving the well-being of communities in their respective districts.
Dr Mohd Arifin also urged the councillors to fulfil their important role as the bridge between local authorities, the Government and the people.
Also present were Sabah Youth Development, Sports and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan, assistant ministers, state assemblymen and senior government officials.
