KUCHING: Newly appointed Serian District Council (MDS) chairman Datuk Peter Minos has been entrusted with three key missions—to elevate MDS to municipal status, spearhead the development of a new headquarters, and identify tourism and cultural hotspots to boost Serian’s growth.
The former Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) chairman, who served for a decade and oversaw its transformation into a municipality in 2016, admitted he was caught off guard by the appointment.
“I really wanted to retire and had prepared for it for over a year. I wanted to take it light and easy, maybe do some writing.
“I am totally surprised by the appointment. I did not expect it at all. When verbally told early two weeks ago by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian and Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, I thought they were pulling my leg. Turns out it was all true,” he said in a statement.
However, Minos described the government’s call as an honour to serve and a challenge he was ready to take on.
“I cannot reject the government’s offer. I will do my best with the fullest support from fellow councillors and staff, as well as guidance from higher authorities and government agencies,” he said.
Minos noted that Serian is fast developing, with numerous projects already underway, some of which fall under MDS’s responsibility.
“We will focus on implementing these projects efficiently and without delay. They are meant for the people and good for them. The people want things done fast and on time,” he stressed.
Drawing from his experience in the rapidly growing Samarahan division, Minos expressed confidence in his new role, though he admitted he will miss Samarahan fondly.
“I liked it in Samarahan. There were many challenges and new things. My experience there will definitely come in handy here in Serian,” he added.
