663 KMKK Betong continues to strengthen its role as a liaison between the government, people

BETONG, 26 Sept: The 663 Chiefs of Community and People's Party (KMKK) in the Concrete Division continues to play an important role as a link between government and society at the root level.

Deputy Minister of Women, Child Development and Community Welfare, Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam said the total was made up of 50 community leaders and 613 tribal leaders.

According to him, the role of KMKK is not only focused on government information delivery but also covers aspects of welfare, safety, disaster management, land, customs, infrastructure development and coordination of the Committee for Rural Development and Security (CRSP).

"The KMKK is close to the people, understands the state of society and is among the main governmental liaisons with communities at the root level.

"At the same time, the KMKK is facing various issues related to welfare, security, development, land, disaster, customs and information delivery", he said.

He said this while addressing the Honorable Sarawak Premier's Midday Meeting with Head of Community and People (KMKK) Division Betong, here today.

It was also attended by the Sarawak Prime Minister, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Emas and Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.

Razi explained that the role of KMKK is very important in disaster management including identifying risks, assisting with the management of temporary relocation centres (PPS), preparing victims lists, distributing aid and reporting damages to public facilities.

Meanwhile, he announced that the Sarawak Government has approved an increase in KMKK allowance of RM400 per month effective January 1 this year.

With the adjustment, the sums were increased from RM1,600 to RM2,000, the sponsors from RM1,300 to RM1,700, the bosses from RM1,100 to RM1,500 and the chiefs of tribes from RM900 to RM1,300 a month.

He said the alignment reflects the government's appreciation of KMKK's responsibility, commitment and devotional service in helping manage various community affairs.

Razi also informed of 50 Community Chiefs in the Betong Division, seven of whom are pancakes, three each in the Betong District, three in Saratok and one in Pusa.

However, he said that Kabong District still has not had a Candidate position.

In this regard, he appealed to the Government of Sarawak to consider the establishment of new KMKK posts in the corresponding areas including banking positions in districts in the Betong Division.

According to him, the adjustment of the structure and addition of the posts is essential to ensure that community leadership coverage is in line with population growth, development of settlements and current needs of the people.

He said that close cooperation between the government, Betong Division administration and KMKK should continue to be strengthened in order to ensure that Sarawak's development agenda is truly beneficial to society at root level. - TVS