Marudi chiefs to be appointed based on villagers’ wishes
MIRI: Village or longhouse chiefs in Marudi constituency would be appointed based on the wishes of residents in their respective areas.
Assistant Minister for Local Government Datu Dr Penguang Manggil, who is Marudi assemblyman, said the selection and appointments would be based on government procedures, where the people are allowed to choose their own leaders.
“I will not interfere nor appoint KetuaKaums (KKs), as by doing so will create unhappiness and factions among the longhouse communities,” he said in an interview on Wednesday.
Penguang said popularly elected chiefs should continue to head their village or longhouse and the district officer or administrative officer would supervise an election should there be two chiefs in a longhouse. “In the case of two KKs, let the people elect the leader they prefer,” he said.
The Miri Resident’s Office has been requested to proceed with the appointment of the village or longhouse chiefs.
On the appointment of community leaders for Marudi constituency, Penguang said he would seek fair representation.
“I will try to be as fair as possible and ensure that all ethnic communities are represented,” he said.
He advised those appointed to assist the government as well as observe regulations and circulars. “I will not hesitate to institute appropriate actions if they behave otherwise,” he said.
Penguang has proposed for more community leaders to be appointed including a Malay Pemanca each for Marudi and Beluru districts; a Penghulu each for the Malay and Chinese community in Beluru; a Chinese Kapitan for Lapok; another Iban Pemanca and Penghulu each for Marudi in lower Baram; anIbanPenghulu for Tinjar and a Penan Penghulu.
I will not interfere nor appoint Ketua Kaums (KKs), as by doing so will create unhappiness and factions among the longhouse communities. Datu Dr Penguang Manggil, Assistant Minister for Local Government