Local councils get ‘Emergency Back-up Team’ this year
SIBU: The Ministry of Local Government will introduce ‘Emergency Back-Up Team’ for local councils in the state this year.
Its minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian said the team will be on standby 24 hours a day and seven days a week as an addition to other emergency cases responding authorities like Fire and Rescue Department ( Bomba), Civil Defence Force and hospitals.
“This is so that local councils will have their own support team on standby in cases that require prompt response, for example, to remove fallen trees that are obstructing traffic.
“This is another people- centric programme that the ministry wishes to implement this year because traditionally local councils’ biggest challenge is problems like blocked drains, broken street lights and rubbish that always get complaints from public,” he said.
He said this at a briefing at Sibu Municipal Council office in Wisma Sanyan here yesterday.
Also present were Ministry of Local Government permanent secretary Bakrie Zaini, SMC chairman Datuk Tiong Thai King, Assistant Minister of Science Research and Biotechnology Dr Annuar Rapaee and SMC deputy chairman Rogayah Jamain.
Earlier, Dr Sim congratulated SMC for its good financial management by engaging smart partnership with nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) and private sector in their joint efforts to make the town green.
He also noted SMC use of its own manpower to help clear blocked drains as well as street light maintenance.
On vacant posts at SMC, he said he will inform the Public Service Commission.
“I personally believe that to provide better service, you must have adequate manpower,” he said.