KUCHING: Issues related to longhouse chiefs (Tuai Rumah in Iban) must not be politicised, said Utilities Minister Datuk Seri Stephen Rundi Utom.
Hence, from his perspective, a statement by Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin was mere allegation.
Yesterday, during a press conference at Kuching International Airport before departing for Kuala Lumpur, Zuraida called on the state government to handle allowances for longhouse chiefs professionally.
She said during a meeting with members of Persatuan Kebajikan Rumah Panjang Bintulu on Sunday some Tuai Rumah told her that the state government has not paid their allowances because they were appointed by Pakatan Harapan (PH).
However, Dr Rundi said Sarawak government does not politicise the appointment of community leaders or village heads.
“It is up to the village security and development committees (JKKK) or the people themselves to select their ‘tuai rumah’,” he said.
Rundi said Sarawakians would be grateful if leaders outside Sarawak don’t comment on such thing without proper information.
According to him, the appointment of community leaders or village heads is done in accordance with procedures and terms contained the state’s relevant laws, rules and regulations.
“Zuraida should consult the Sarawak government before making her comments, that is, unless she has ulterior motives,” he stressed.
He added in the past some cases might take time due to screening procedure by the police department.
“Because of the delay, the cabinet decided to expedite the process by getting the Residents office to do the screening instead.”
