KUCHING: A detailed study on adjusting allowances for local authority (PBT) councillors is nearing completion, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
However, he added that the review of allowances for community leaders and village chiefs (KMKK) is still underway.
His Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government will convene a meeting next year to finalise the details.
“Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has stressed the importance of aligning any councillor allowance increases with adjustments for community leaders and village chiefs to prevent unnecessary controversy,” Dr Sim said during the closing ceremony of the Fire Safety and Fire Hydrant Community Adoption Programme at Dewan Perpaduan RPR Batu Kawa today (Nov 23).
Earlier, Minister in the Premier’s Department (Native Laws and Customs), Datuk John Sikie Tayai, revealed during his ministerial winding-up speech on Monday (Nov 18) that the last salary adjustment for KMKK was in 2018, which included a salary increase and an additional RM100 monthly allowance.
“Currently, there are 7,592 KMKK across Sarawak,” he said.
“Their current monthly salaries and allowances are as follows: RM1,600 with an annual increment of RM40 for 41 Temenggong; RM1,300 with a RM30 annual increment for 88 Pemanca; RM1,100 with a RM20 increment for 542 Penghulu; and RM900 for 6,921 Ketua Kaum.”
“The government allocates RM86.6 million annually for KMKK salaries, representing a 15 per cent increase (RM12.5 million) compared to 2020,” he added.
