SIBU: Local councils in Sarawak remain the frontline of governance, continuing to provide quality services despite assessment being not revised since the 1960s.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian highlighted the challenges faced by councils due to limited income but high expectations.
“Most councils in Sarawak are struggling financially because our assessment rates have not increased since the 1960s, even though salaries and the cost of living have risen while other states such as Penang and Selangor have increased their assessment rates by as much as 25 per cent.
“In Sarawak, we are still using 1960s records due to a single policy introduced by the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem.
“Adenan believed that if an assessment fell below a certain amount, it should be waived. As a result, the Sibu council lost RM2 million,” he said at the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) appreciation dinner at a renowned hotel here last night (Dec 29).
Dr Sim, who is also the Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, emphasised that Adenan’s policy aimed to strike a balance, ensuring councils could provide good services while easing the financial burden on the people.
“That’s why Sarawak’s assessment rates have not increased, unlike Selangor, which saw a 25 per cent rise. Yet, people understandably expect better services, which come at a cost.
“As SMC chairman Clarence Ting said, it is never easy for councillors or council staff to meet these demands,” he said.
Dr Sim briefly shared some good news for the local council, stating that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and the cabinet have agreed to compensate councils for their lost revenue starting next year.
“This funding will help improve services, which is crucial. Without it, councils would be forced to increase fees,” he added.
However, he did not provide details about the initiative.
Meanwhile, on SMC, Dr Sim lauded it for its dedication and achievements throughout 2024, commending its efforts in maintaining high standards despite financial challenges.
He hoped that the council will continue its good work and provide good services to the people of Sibu.
Also present were Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng Jin Ek, Senator Robert Lau and MPHLG permanent secretary Datuk Elizabeth Loh.
