KUCHING, Nov 4: The Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Backbenchers Club has defended the RM100 million allocation for Village Development and Security Committees (JKKKs), calling it a brilliant move by the state government.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg made the announcement during his State Budget 2020 speech at the State Legislative Assembly today.
The press had asked GPS Backbenchers Club chairman Paulus Palu Gumbang if the allocation was to counter the federal government’s setting up of Federal Village Community Management Councils (MPKKPs).
“No. The allocation for JKKK is not to counter MPKKP but it is our own way of strengthening our JKKK. This RM100 million will be used to strengthen the JKKKs especially those in rural areas. At the same time, it will motivate the members to work harder in serving people in their respective areas,” he explained.
Abang Johari in his speech said the GPS state government recognised the important role and significant contribution of JKKKs as grassroots machinery in helping to ensure the safety and prosperity of the villages.
“With the accelerated pace of development in the state, the role of JKKK is becoming more challenging and critical. This calls for the need to strengthen the administration in order for them to be more well-informed, knowledgeable and proactive,” Abang Johari said, adding that the funds could be used for their activities as well as to pay meeting and monthly allowances.
Paulus also opined that the overall State Budget 2020 such as the micro credit scheme, National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) loan repayment assistance, assistance for fishermen during ‘landas’ season, housing and post-natal care assistance, just to name a few, covers the whole spectrum of society.
“It is a very comprehensive and people-centric budget concerning development and community well-being in both urban and rural areas,” Paulus said, adding that it reflects GPS’ capabilities in managing the state. — DayakDaily
