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By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, Aug 25: Hilmy Othman, the outgoing deputy mayor of Kuching South City Hall (MBKS) who has been promoted to the position of Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) mayor, expressed relief that many “acting” staff members of MBKS have finally been promoted and are now officially filling their roles.
During his farewell speech at today’s MBKS full council meeting, Hilmy stated that some MBKS staff members were asked to temporarily fill positions above their assigned grades.
He provided examples of those who were “acting” for positions classified as Grade 44, 48, or 52.
Although these staff members were in “acting” roles, they diligently carried out their duties without complaints.
“I must record here that for the administration I have worked with at MBKS, I have great respect for them,” said Hilmy.
Regarding his appointment as DBKU mayor, he promised to establish strong ties between the two city councils, with a common goal of transforming Kuching into a smart city.
“My intention is for DBKU to collaborate closely with MBKS in all areas, even in ways that haven’t been done before. I promise you that I will work alongside Datuk Bandar Wee Hong Seng as a counterpart to develop the city, particularly to implement the smart city concept. Working together towards this goal will benefit us and the people of Kuching,” Hilmy emphasised.
He also underscored the importance of collaboration with the other two councils, Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) and Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS), as urged by Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“Things will remain the same on the other side (DBKU). The only difference is that they will collaborate between Datuk Bandar and the chairmen of the various councils.”
Hilmy, who officially resigns from his current post on Aug 31 and assumes his new position on Sept 1, invited all councillors to visit him once he takes office at DBKU.
He took the opportunity to express his gratitude to MBKS mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng and the councillors, both those who served in the past and the current ones.
Hilmy became an MBKS councillor in 1998 and served until his term expired in 2008, during which he worked under four mayors: former Batu Lintang assembly Dato Chan Seng Khai, late Datu Chong Teck Choon, Dato James Chan, and now Dato Wee Hong Seng.
He later rejoined MBKS under James Chan’s leadership. In 2016, he was promoted to deputy mayor of the council.
Hilmy highlighted that the four mayors he worked with had different styles and approaches to administration, which he considered a blessing as it enriched his experience.
Meanwhile, Wee expressed mixed feelings about Hilmy’s departure, as MBKS was saddened to see him leave yet equally proud of the new path that awaits him.
“His unwavering dedication, immense hard work, and invaluable expertise have not only set a benchmark but also made an indelible impact on our community.
“From consistently being the most present at meetings to his pivotal roles as the chairman for the standing committee for Public, Health and Licensing, Housing subcommittee, deputy chairman for the Tender Board, and Finance and Establishment Standing committee, his contributions have been nothing short of exemplary,” stated Wee. — DayakDaily
