The decision by the Public Health, Housing and Local Government Ministry to review and adjust allowances for community leaders, and village chiefs (KMKK) across Sarawak starting next year is both timely and necessary.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian announced that the review is ongoing and that a meeting will be convened next year to finalise the details.
This decision reflects the government’s recognition of the KMKK’s vital role in community development and governance.
It is also highly welcomed, as it is long overdue. These leaders unquestionably deserve a raise, and any further delay would be entirely unwarranted and difficult to justify.
Minister in the Premier’s Department (Native Laws and Customs), Datuk John Sikie Tayai, during his winding-up speech at the recent Sarawak Legislative Assembly sitting, which adjourned sine die last week, said there are currently 7,592 KMKK serving throughout the state. They comprise 41 Temenggongs, 88 Pemancas, 542 Penghulus, and 6,921 village chiefs, commonly referred to as Ketua Kaum.
He disclosed that the last salary review for the KMKK was carried out six years ago in 2018, which included an additional RM100 in their monthly allowance.
Under the present salary and allowance structure, a community leader holding the title of Temenggong, the highest position in the hierarchy, earns RM1,600 per month with an annual increment of RM40.
The second-highest position, Pemanca, receives RM1,300 per month with a RM30 annual increment, followed by Penghulu earning RM1,100 per month with a RM20 annual increment. A Ketua Kaum, on the other hand, earns just RM900 per month.
The majority of those holding these positions are typically pensioners, which is not surprising given that the current salary structure, particularly for a Ketua Kaum, is far from appealing.
At worst, it is even lower than the minimum wage for workers in Sarawak, making it an unattractive option for younger or working-age individuals.
Consequently, it is a frequent occurrence for a Ketua Kaum who is not a retired government official to pursue supplementary employment opportunities to bolster their income.
Given the escalating cost of living, revising their allowances is not just suitable but imperative. The present allowance inadequately caters to their fundamental expenses when carrying out their responsibilities.
Furthermore, it neglects to acknowledge the gravity of their duties, much less their esteemed position and obligations as leaders within the community.
Community leaders, such as Temenggong, Pemanca, Penghulu, and Ketua Kaum, hold significant influence and responsibility in Sarawak.
Aligning allowances with present-day economic conditions ensures their ability to maintain an adequate standard of living.
These individuals are often the ‘first point of contact’ for addressing local issues and implementing government initiatives.
The “first point of contact” holds significant importance in the context of addressing local issues and implementing government initiatives. Being the “first point of contact” implies that these individuals are readily available and easily approachable by the community members. This accessibility is crucial as it ensures that citizens can easily reach out to them with their concerns or feedback.
Secondly, as the initial contact for local issues and government initiatives, these individuals play a pivotal role in facilitating the flow of information between the government and the community. They act as a bridge, ensuring that relevant information reaches the right people and vice versa.
Thirdly, since they are the first to hear about local issues, they are often tasked with resolving problems at the grassroots level. This proximity to community concerns allows them to address issues promptly, potentially preventing escalation or further complications.
Fourthly, in terms of implementing government initiatives, these individuals serve as the frontline executors. They are responsible for translating policies into action at the local level, ensuring that the intended benefits of these initiatives reach the community effectively.
To sum up, the “first point of contact” signifies the crucial role these individuals play in connecting the government with the community, addressing local issues efficiently, and ensuring the effective implementation of government initiatives at the grassroots level. Their accessibility, role in information dissemination, problem-solving abilities, community engagement, and trust-building efforts collectively highlight their importance in local governance and public administration.
The responsibilities of community leaders have expanded significantly over the years. They are not only mediators in disputes but also serve as liaisons between the government and the people, implementing policies and ensuring social harmony. Without commensurate salaries, their ability to effectively lead and garner respect is compromised.
If they lack financial independence due to outdated salaries, their influence and ability to lead can also erode. This weakens the community structure and the government’s reach at the grassroots level.
Hence, it is crucial that this proposed review address this imbalance to ensure fair recognition and adequate support for their roles.
This approach would also align with the government’s efforts to attract capable individuals to take on leadership roles in the future.
By offering competitive and fair remuneration, the government can attract talented and motivated leaders who will command respect and contribute to the community’s progress. Fair compensation would ensure they remain motivated and capable of fulfilling their responsibilities effectively. It also acts as a morale booster, which can lead to better service delivery and dedication.
Community leaders and village chiefs are indispensable in bridging the gap between rural communities and state authorities. Improved allowances can enhance their capacity to perform, particularly in remote or underserved areas. This is critical for Sarawak, where rural development and local governance are key priorities.
By addressing long-overdue salary adjustments, the government demonstrates its commitment to supporting grassroots leaders and councillors. This proactive stance reinforces public trust in state leadership, showcasing its dedication to equitable and thoughtful governance.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the Sarawak Tribune.
