SIBU: Grassroots leadership must be strengthened with knowledge, skills and strong integrity to ensure public services remain efficient, transparent and effective, said Bawang Assan assemblyman Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh.
He said growing public demands and expectations for government services required community leaders, village heads and government officers to continuously enhance their capabilities while having a clear understanding of the rules and procedures governing their responsibilities.
“Good intentions alone are not enough to ensure that matters are handled properly. Every action must be guided by the law, rules and established procedures.
“Rules should not be seen as obstacles, but as guidelines to ensure that every action taken is fair, transparent and accountable,” he said in his text of speech read by his personal assistant, Councillor Sean Wong, when officiating at the closing ceremony of the 2026 Professionalism Enhancement Programme for Institutions, Villages and Communities in N.53 Bawang Assan, held at Green EcoFarm here on Tuesday afternoon.
Wong said professionalism enhancement programmes should not be regarded merely as routine events, but as important investments in developing grassroots leaders who were capable, trustworthy and committed to serving the community.
He stressed that the knowledge and skills gained through such programmes must be translated into concrete action and improvements in the delivery of services to the people.
“People want efficient services, transparent governance and leaders who genuinely listen to and understand their problems and concerns.
“Therefore, all the knowledge and experience gained through this programme should be translated into positive changes in the way we serve the community,” he said.
Wong also underscored the importance of close cooperation between community leaders, government agencies and relevant departments in ensuring that government policies and initiatives were effectively implemented at the local level.
As an elected representative, he said his role also included coordinating and facilitating cooperation between community leaders, government officers and various agencies in addressing issues and the needs of residents in Bawang Assan.
“Cooperation with the Resident and District Officer is also crucial to ensure that government policies are implemented effectively.
“No individual or single department can solve every problem alone. We must work as a team,” he said.
Wong further reminded community leaders that the diversity of Bawang Assan should be regarded as a strength capable of bringing people together, rather than becoming a factor that divides the community.
He said leadership should not be measured by titles or positions, but by an individual’s ability to bring about positive change and make a meaningful impact on people’s lives.
“Everyone entrusted with leadership, whether a government officer, community leader or village head, has an important role in determining the progress of the area and the wellbeing of the people.
“Every effort, no matter how small, contributes to the greater good and development of Bawang Assan,” he said.
He also urged all parties to carry out their responsibilities with sincerity, professionalism and genuine concern for the people.
“Public service is about serving the people. The positions we hold are a trust, and we must serve with integrity, dedication and a strong sense of responsibility.
“People do not expect perfection, but they expect sincerity, attention and our best efforts,” he said.
Wong expressed hope that the spirit of cooperation fostered through the programme would continue to strengthen ties between community leaders, government agencies and residents.
“The development of Bawang Assan is our shared responsibility. If we stand united, I am confident that we can build a more harmonious, progressive and prosperous constituency.
“Let us continue this spirit, build trust and serve everyone regardless of background for the wellbeing and future of our people,” he said.
He also expressed his appreciation to the organisers, government officers, community leaders and all participants for their commitment and cooperation in making the programme a success.
Among those present were Sibu Division Resident representative Macgyver Boi and Sibu District Officer representative Cynthia Ong.
