KUCHING: All councillors in 26 local government authorities throughout Sarawak (three city councils, three municipal councils, Bintulu Development Authority and 19 district councils) will fully back and support the state government in “difficult and trying times”, said Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) chairman Datuk Peter Minos.
He pointed out that the councillors were selected and appointed by the state government, and were duty bound to help the state.
“All of us here know that ‘outsiders’ are going all out to take over Sarawak and Sarawakians must ask themselves.
“Do you want Sarawakian leaders to lead Sarawak or ‘outsiders’ and proxies/surrogates to take over?” questioned Minos, adding that it was an important question as Sarawak’s state election would be held in 2021 or earlier.
He said this at MPKS’ third anniversary dinner held in Kota Samarahan recently.
The function was attended by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian and Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Minos later urged councillors to ponder on the question as Sarawakian leaders know the state and its people well, including their cultures and traditions; hopes and aspirations; fears and concerns; and more.
“Therefore, it is best and wise for Sarawakians to lead Sarawak.
“I don’t think ‘outsiders’ know Sarawak at all, much less to rule it.”
Minos also said that the councillors are the state government’s so-called front line, who know and deal with the local people and conditions.
“They try their best in solving local and ground problems. Thus, they play a big role as local councillors.
“That is why they are called the ‘local government’,” he added.
At the function, the chief minister approved the proposed construction of MPKS’ new headquarters to accommodate the increasing number of staff.
