SIBU: Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) Chairman, Clarence Ting Ing Horh, has called on newly appointed and reappointed councillors to work together to ensure the council’s continued success.
“This year, on January 22, our council was named champion in the Local Authority (City and Municipal Council) category for 2023/2024 at the 11th Premier of Sarawak Environmental Award ceremony.
“This achievement is not the result of any one individual, but the outcome of strong teamwork within the council. I hope this spirit will continue to drive us towards greater excellence.
“Let us commit to working with mutual respect, transparency and integrity, upholding the interests of all races, creeds and religions for the betterment of Sibu,” he said.
Ting said this in his speech at the SMC swearing-in ceremony, officiated by Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who is also the Deputy Premier, at Wisma Sanyan on Tuesday.
Ting was reappointed as Chairman, with Councillor Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar Roseley returning as Deputy Chairman.
Highlighting the role of local councils as the third tier of government and closest to the people, Ting said councillors are both policymakers and collaborators with council staff to ensure effective service delivery.
“We must understand the needs, challenges, and aspirations of our community and reflect these in our monthly meetings.
“Every policy passed and discussion held in this chamber shapes the future of our municipality,” he added.
“It’s essential to implement practical, people-centred solutions that truly address community needs.”
He reminded councillors of their responsibility to make fair, informed decisions and to always act in the public’s best interest.
“Our work continues daily – keeping Sibu clean, cutting grass, clearing drains, maintaining roads and signage, ensuring smooth traffic flow, addressing flooding issues in collaboration with other agencies, and enhancing public safety.
“Trust is the foundation of good governance. We must deliver on our promises in a timely manner to earn and maintain public confidence,” he stressed.
“Only through openness and accountability can we foster civic trust and encourage community cooperation.”
Ting encouraged new councillors to bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm, and to engage actively with the community and council management.
“To our returning councillors – thank you for your continued dedication. Your experience and leadership are crucial as we move forward together.
“This chamber must remain a space for robust debate, respectful differences, and ultimately, consensus in the interest of the community,” he said.
Among the councillors are Norizan Sanyut, Jiram Mardan, Christopher Kelebit Ansa, Syed Hamzah Wan Hamid Adruce, Abang Carrol Abang Dris, Raden Khairulzaman Raden Bustari and Abang Kamaluddin Abang Hamdan.
Also serving are Michelle Law Wan Ling, Huong Haw Ching, Toh Yong Kiang, Jenny Ting Hua Hung, Chou Kok Jin, Siao Chin Ho, Rory Wong Ee Tyon, Yiing Sy Huat and Kiing Teck Ho.
The line-up continues with Amelia Tiu Siew Yian, Teo Choon Teck, Shirley Ling Sheau Hui, Lau Nguing Ling, Sean Wong Jiun Jieh, Law Lee Wee, Augustine Merikan, Sami @ Sammy Ngelambai, Dr Johnny Kei Dullah and Edmund Akaw Jenang.
