LUNDU: The proposed formation of the Federal Village Community Management Council (MPKKP) system in Sarawak by the federal government continues to receive negative feedback from local community leaders.
Over 100 of them from here voiced their unhappiness before Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Tanjung Datu assemblywoman Datuk Amar Jamilah Anu yesterday.
They were led by Pemanca Ibrahim @ Bentani Suni representing Malay leaders, Pemanca London Tasin (Bidayuh), Penghulu Maling Sedek (Iban) and Penghulu Chin Kian Ming (Chinese).
The community leaders said despite the long established Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) still functional, the federal government was seen as forcing the MPKKP on them.
Earlier, Uggah said the state government had full confidence in the present JKKK leadership and structure statewide.
He added that the state government and all elected representatives would continue to assist the JKKK in carrying out its responsibilities.
“I would like the leaders to strengthen the organisation of their respective JKKK.
“When you are well organised, strong and effective, others will have little reason to replace your organisation,” he said.
He advised the community against falling for the many promises and propagandas used by MPKKP promoters to win them over.
“Bear in mind the PH (Pakatan Harapan federal) government has yet to fulfil many promises they had made in the last election.
“The promoters too have said all federal developments would be channelled to the people through the MPKKP.
“But then the big or major ones would still have to go through the state government due to procedures and protocols,” said Uggah.
“Another point of contention is the fact that MPKKP leaders are all political appointees whereas those in JKKK are selected by the people themselves.”
Uggah said it was clear now that the formation of the MPKKP was an attempt to take over the state administration.
“Only local leaders can look after the state, protect its rights, its interests and its people well.”
Uggah also chided Federal Finance Minister and DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng for always trying to belittle state leaders.
“He is always vitriolic in his criticism and accusation. He seems to think Sarawakians are not capable of looking after the state well.
“And it is just sad that certain local leaders are dancing to his tune,” Uggah added.
