FACETS OF ZAMBRY'S MISSION
The state government has been carrying out the ‘Permukiman’ programme at between one- and two-month intervals to address the people’s grouses directly
THE afternoon skies in Perak Tengah can be quite unforgiving. It can be scorching during the day, stoking worry among those obsessed with the fairness of their skin; so goes the gruff analogy derived from urbane cynicism.
Beads of sweat and appearance of a farmer’s tan for the shortsleeved are testament to the climate that could take a while to get used to. An ice-cold drink or the delectable cendol is very much needed for a temporary reprieve from the dreaded heat.
And, if you had dropped by there sometime last week to satiate certain cravings for spicy
gulai tempoyak dishes, you might have caught a glimpse or two of Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir walking about, meeting and shaking hands with the locals.
No, it is the not the election season. Or not quite yet to say the least, if we take into account patchy reports on the 14th General Election.
Zambry was there to lead the state government’s “Permukiman” programme, which, to the uninitiated, is an initiative to address the people’s grouses directly without the shackles of bureaucracy.
The state government has been carrying out the district-centric programme, at between one- and two-month intervals, ever since Barisan Nasional returned to power in 2009.
At 54, Zambry looked rather trimmed and devoid of worry lines across his forehead. An aide said his boss had become some sort of a health enthusiast, to keep up with plans mooted for the “permukiman” rounds.
He had been hitting the gym almost every day to maintain or improve his stamina.
“If he misses a gym session in the morning, he’ll make it up in the evening,” an aide said.
Cycling and running have become a favourite pastime. It has also been years since Zambry had his last cigarette.
The “permukiman” event in Perak Tengah was held from March 7 to 11. It boasted more than 109 programmes — suffice to say, it is a no-brainer as to why you will need the stamina to keep up with — tailored to understand and resolve the people’s grouses better.
From intrusive culverts and toilet cleanliness, Zambry and company would ruminate on addressing their woes and educate the people on how to improve their quality of life.
State executive councillors and department directors of relevant portfolios are also roped in. They are encouraged to mingle with the people, and be prepared for a schedule filled to the brim.
For instance, Zambry and his men remained clad in their cycling uniform at a meeting with several Orang Asli families, to assure them that their lands and rights were protected.
It is no surprise that after years of refinements and tweaks, the “permukiman” can be expressed as Zambry’s crowning glory in efforts to render government services. He tried his best, too, in reassuring the people that the programme is apolitical.
“This is really, really (what we mean by) turun padang (to be on the ground). Let us stress that ‘really, really’ expression,” Zambry said in a slightly nasal British twang, when met during the last leg of the “permukiman”.
The “permukiman” is no longer alien among locals. You can say it is generally a success, although as admitted by Zambry, there is still room for improvement, especially in terms of delivery.
But, above all else, Zambry underscored teamwork as a crucial factor, which oiled the gears in the programme’s inner workings.
For starters, and understandably so, changing the mindset of a few, especially in reforming their attitude towards work, could be a daunting task.
Nevertheless, Zambry believes in educative, instead of punitive approach when dealing with problems; condescension or name-calling is not the way to go.
He abhors the so-called “nameand-shame” policy, or anything that is pervasively non-constructive when it comes to rectifying issues among staff members.
Building their confidence is key to ensure they continue doing their best. No compunctions.
“You see them being friendly and are not afraid to take selfies with me (for example).
“I think I have blurred the lines (between top boss and staff). And they give their best every single time.”
Some say Zambry and his team have started early in their turun
padang efforts, instead of just holding such programmes at the dawn of electoral season.
Of course, it would not hurt to win the hearts and minds of voters while you are at it.
And, those are just a (lengthened) summary of what had led to the success of Zambry’s “permukiman” programme.
From intrusive culverts and toilet cleanliness, Zambry and company would ruminate on addressing their woes and educate the people on how to improve their quality of life.