WHEN the Sarawak government recently announced an increment of RM400 in the monthly remuneration for Ketua Masyarakat and Ketua Kaum (KMKK), it was met with relief across longhouses, kampungs, and settlements throughout the state. For years, many of us – including me in previous columns – have emphasised the need to reassess their allowances, which have not kept pace with the realities of their responsibilities.
This increment, taking effect on 1 January 2026, is a step in the right direction. It signals the government’s recognition of the indispensable role these community leaders play in maintaining social harmony, bridging local and state governance, and supporting Sarawak’s development agenda at the grassroots level.
But while the increase is welcomed, it also compels us to take a deeper look at what KMKK actually do – and whether the new rate adequately reflects their workload, sacrifices, and expectations placed upon them.
The Backbone of Grassroots Governance
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said it clearly during the recent DUN sitting: KMKK form “the backbone of Sarawak’s grassroots governance”.
With more than 7,700 appointed leaders – including Temenggong, Pemanca, Penghulu, and Ketua Kaum – KMKK are the closest link between government policies and the people who need them most.
Their responsibilities go far beyond ceremonial representation. They are the custodians of unity, the mediators of disputes, the reference point for agencies, and the trusted bridge between villagers and government officers. In many ways, they form the oldest and most enduring governance structure in Sarawak.
But the true demands of their work often remain invisible to those outside the community.
A Job That Is Close to Full-Time in Reality
Even with the new increment, many Ketua Kaum allowances remain low compared with their responsibilities. The current rate of around RM900 per month, even after the increase, does not fully reflect what is effectively a full-time leadership role in the community.
A glimpse into their daily and weekly duties shows why:
- First responders of community leadership
When disputes arise between neighbours or small issues threaten community harmony, the Ketua Kaum steps in. They mediate, advise, negotiate, and enforce customary norms, often at night or during weekends. - Handling endless documentation
KMKK manage vital administrative tasks, from signing letters to verifying personal documents. Accuracy and accountability make this a time-consuming responsibility. - Liaison for government engagement
Whenever elected representatives or government agencies conduct programmes, the KMKK coordinates arrangements, mobilises residents, provides local information, represents the community, and follows up afterwards. - Coordinating development initiatives
From road repairs to welfare distribution, the KMKK manages expectations, mediates disagreements, ensures participation, and monitors progress. - Bearing the weight of representation
In Sarawak, leadership is inseparable from presence. KMKK must attend funerals, Gawai events, religious ceremonies, school functions, cultural celebrations, and emergency meetings. Their presence symbolises unity; absence can be seen as disrespect. - Responding to emergencies without hesitation
During floods, fires, landslides, or sudden family crises, the KMKK is the first point of contact. They coordinate assistance, alert authorities, and ensure vulnerable households are not overlooked.
The breadth and intensity of these responsibilities demonstrate that the role is far more than part-time. While the increment is welcome, it remains clear that Ketua Kaum perform a complex, demanding service that underpins rural governance and community stability.
The Human Cost Behind the Title
One important point often overlooked is that KMKK are not salaried officers. They are individuals with their own families, farms, small businesses, and jobs. Every hour spent on community affairs is an hour taken away from their income-generating activities.
Only retired civil servants or pension recipients may have some financial cushioning. But the majority of KMKK rely on the allowance as a significant part of their livelihood. And when that allowance is not enough, they are forced to juggle community duties with employment – inevitably causing strain on their time, energy, and personal obligations.
The reality is this:
We expect KMKK to devote themselves fully but compensate them as if the role is part-time. This imbalance cannot be sustained forever.
Should KMKK Be Recognised as Full-Time Positions?
Given the evolving nature of the KMKK role, perhaps it is time for Sarawak to consider a bolder, forward-looking approach: formalising KMKK as full-time positions, at least for Ketua Kaum and Penghulu, whose responsibilities are the most demanding.
If the expectations and workload resemble full-time service, then the compensation should reflect the same.
Recognising KMKK as full-time roles could also be accompanied by a more structured and professional recruitment system. This would ensure only qualified and capable individuals are appointed.
Possible criteria could include:
• A minimum education level
• Basic digital literacy, especially as the state pushes digitalisation
• Strong communication skills
• Knowledge of customary law and local cultural practices
• Clean record and community respect
• Willingness to undergo periodic training or certification
Such a system would strengthen the credibility, capability, and professionalism of grassroots leadership.
Why This Matters for Sarawak
Formalising and strengthening the KMKK system would deliver long-term gains, including better services, greater accountability, stronger rural governance, and the preservation of cultural leadership.
This effort is not merely about improving allowances, but about reshaping grassroots leadership for the future. A clearer, more structured system would ensure consistent support for communities and provide government agencies with reliable partners on the ground.
It could also create a recognised pathway for younger Sarawakians to serve. By empowering and fairly supporting KMKK leaders, we reinforce the entire governance ecosystem and build a more resilient Sarawak where every community is led with dignity and commitment.
A Good Start – But Far From Done
The RM400 increment is meaningful. It reflects the government’s appreciation of KMKK and their contributions to nation-building at the grassroots. But it should be the beginning, not the end, of a larger conversation.
If we truly want to strengthen rural governance, uplift community harmony, and ensure that no household is left behind, then we must invest in the people who stand at the frontlines every single day.
KMKK are community stabilisers, mediators, custodians of culture, and the silent force that keeps villages and longhouses functioning smoothly.
They deserve not only a higher allowance – they also deserve a system that recognises the full value of their work.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at drnagrace@gmail.com.
