Community leaders remain backbone of government’s delivery system, says Sikie

TATAU (March 19) Community leaders and village chiefs (KMKK) remain the backbone of the government’s delivery system at the grassroots level, said Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai.

He said KMKK not only serve as a crucial link between the government and the people, but also act as frontliners in safeguarding community welfare, resolving local issues and maintaining harmony.

“In many situations, KMKK are the first point of reference for the community when facing challenges. Their role as strategic partners is essential in ensuring that government policies, programmes and development initiatives are effectively delivered to the people,” he said when officiating at the closing ceremony of the Leadership Transformation and Governance Empowerment Seminar for KMKK of Tatau District under Kakus constituency in Mukah on Wednesday.

Sikie also expressed appreciation to the Tatau District Office for organising the seminar, describing it as an important initiative to strengthen grassroots leadership.

Touching on Sarawak’s development direction, the Kakus assemblyman said the state is moving towards a brighter future under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, guided by the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), which aims to transform Sarawak into a developed, high-income and inclusive state by 2030.

He noted that the Sarawak government continues to prioritise balanced and inclusive development, focusing on economic growth, infrastructure provision and improving the people’s standard of living, including in rural areas.

“In Kakus, various development initiatives have been introduced through agencies such as the Mid Rejang Regional Development Agency (Mirrda), Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda) and Bintulu Rural Development Committee (Birdcom) to accelerate rural development projects,” he said.

Among the key projects is the construction of R3-standard roads that will connect interior areas such as Kakus and Ulu Anap to towns like Tatau and Bintulu.

“These roads are not merely for connectivity, but pathways to economic opportunities, progress and a better future for rural communities.

“Improved road networks will enhance access to education, healthcare, employment and economic activities,” he added.

He stressed that the government remains committed to ensuring that rural communities, including those in Kakus, Ulu Anap and surrounding areas, are not left behind in the state’s development progress.

On rural development, Sikie said the government continues to implement various projects to improve basic amenities, infrastructure and economic opportunities, ensuring equitable development for all.

He also called on KMKK to continue carrying out their responsibilities with dedication, integrity and accountability.

“You are not only community leaders, but also catalysts for unity, stability and progress at the grassroots level. Strong leadership will ensure communities remain united and supportive of development efforts,” he said.

He added that the strength of a community lies not only in physical development, but also in leadership and cooperation.

During the same event, certificates for the extension of appointments were presented to community leaders, including Pemanca Gerosen Jubin, along with extension certificates awarded to 30 village chiefs and new appointment certificates to 13 additional village chiefs.

Also present were Bintulu Resident Datu Nyurak Keti, Tatau District Officer Calvin Ligong Bujang @ Endawie, Sarawak Bumiputera Courts Chief Registrar Datu Jonathan Lugoh, Majlis Adat Istiadat Sarawak representative Dr Lambat Lindong, Tatau District police chief DSP Jame Reis, and Pemanca Gerosen Jubin.