SIBU: Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) has been urged to keep pace with the Sarawak government’s development plan and policies.
Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian stressed the importance of councillors staying informed and up-to-date on all government plans, particularly the Bukit Assek Redevelopment Plan that is currently in progress.
“In the next few years, Sibu will see the single largest development project in Sarawak, which involves master planning such as building houses, drainage and many others.
“The project involves large funds and land, hence it takes time. But the Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA) has signed the project with an international consulting company. The project is expected to begin soon,” Dr Sim said.
“It’s not enough for councillors to just be aware of the projects; they must also keep up with them. For example, when Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg talks about low carbon cities, councillors must be informed about it. Otherwise, if the Premier mentions low carbon cities during his visit to Sibu, councillors may not have any idea about it,” he said this in his speech during the SMC Swearing-in Ceremony Councillor (2023-2025) yesterday.
Dr Sim, who also serves as Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, also emphasised the importance of councillors engaging with the local community to better serve their needs.
“They need to turun padang (go to the ground) to serve the public better. They need to engage with the local residents and community. The community not only needs to know the elected representatives phone number but also councillors’ phone number,” he said.
He continued, “By going to the field in your respective zone, you will know what the public needs. In return, the council can address those needs through your policies, planning, and regulations.”
