Adapt quickly to rapid changes in digital era, community leaders told

SIBU (March 9): Community leaders should strive to adapt quickly to rapid changes in the digital era, in strengthening their core role as the bridge between the government and the people.

In pointing this out, Sibu Resident Abang Mohamad Porkan Abang Budiman also highlighted the responsibility of community leaders in ensuring that the government policies and initiatives would be effectively communicated to the grassroots.

“The community leaders not only convey government’s information, but also serve as an important channel for voicing out the needs and concerns of the people to the authorities.

“Community leadership is not merely a title, but a significant responsibility in ensuring the welfare of the people is always safeguarded,” he said in his speech for the Sibu Division Chinese Community Leaders Association’s Lunar New Year Dinner on Saturday, which was delivered by state senior administrative officer Maria Nadja Jimmy Jalil.

Adding on, Abang Mohamad Porkan said community leaders must be even more proactive in the current era of technological transformation driven by artificial intelligence (AI), digital economy and automation.

“Nevertheless, integrity remains the foundation of leadership, as public trust is the most valuable asset that a leader can possess,” he added.

Also present at the dinner were Sibu District Officer Tsong Chow Choon, the association’s chairman Temenggung Dato Vincent Lau, and event’s organising committee head Penghulu Yong King Sung.