SIBU: Village chiefs and community leaders have been told not to be in opposition to the government as they are earning from the government.
‘It is the government that channels the allocation to pay the village chief’s allowance and the salary of the community leader,” reminded Assistant Minister of Talent Development, Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) Datuk Francis Harden Hollis.
He was speaking at the inauguration of the new committee of the Sri Aman Iban Community Leaders Association (PKMI) following its 15th general meeting here.
Francis called on the newly appointed members to reflect on their role as local leaders who guide subordinates under their care.
“I have always reminded that the principle of respecting others is necessary before asking to be respected and this is the best principle,” he said.
The new committee for the year 2022-23 was chosen from among 95 community leaders present at the meeting.
At the meeting the delegates, among others, discussed the current policy of shotgun ownership which does not allow the transfer of ownership to grandchildren or siblings from the original owner.
They felt this could become complicated if the owner does not have an heir or beneficiary to pass on the ownership.
Also present were Elvis Didit, Deputy Resident of Sri Aman Division and Sandin Ajah, representative of Sri Aman District Officer.
