SRI AMAN: The ‘gotong-royong’ programme can serve as an indicator of the level of collaboration between the community leader and the people, said Simanggang assemblyman Datuk Francis Harden Hollis.
He said that, in addition to fostering awareness of the importance of cleanliness, this communal work can also measure the level of cooperation between the village chief (such as the Kapitan) and the residents under their care, highlighting the influence of leadership and the pivotal role of the village development and security committee (JKKK) members.
Harden who serves as Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development emphasised that every JKKK chairman should possess leadership influence and garner support from committee members, even if they are not ordinary members themselves.
“The management of JKKK doesn’t solely rely on one person or family because JKKK represents the village’s residents, led by the village chief.
“How to get members involved? It depends on how administration is conducted and how member participation is encouraged.
“We often hear excuses when JKKK organises events, with members citing time constraints and work commitments.
“We are aware that JKKK activities aren’t a daily occurrence, perhaps only happening twice a year, so plan activities during meetings,” he said.
He made these remarks while attending a community service programme under the Community Development Programme of the Sri Aman District Council for the Chinese community, in collaboration with the Chinese community of Entulang, under the leadership of Kapitan Kiew Sii Ted recently.
On the same note, Harden sees his involvement in such activities as an excellent platform to connect with the Chinese community.
Earlier, a similar communal work was also organised for the Chinese community of Brayun Hilir.
