SIBU: The increase in the allowances for community leaders and ketua kaum (KMKK) reflects the Sarawak Government’s continued commitment to recognising their contributions.
Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee said the increase was also aimed at strengthening the welfare of KMKK, who are consistently at the forefront of assisting the government in delivering services and maintaining harmony within their communities.
He said this at a dinner with KMKK on Friday night (July 10). The event was graced by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“Indeed, the Sarawak Government has always appreciated the services and sacrifices of KMKK as the vital link between the government and the people. This recognition is reflected through the initiatives to increase KMKK allowances from time to time,” he said.
According to Tiang, community leaders received an annual allowance of RM200 in 1980, which was increased to RM1,000 per year in 1991.
In line with the growing responsibilities and scope of their duties, the Sarawak Government increased the allowance in 2006 from RM1,000 per year to RM450 per month.
In 2013, the government further revised the allowance rates. The Temenggong allowance was increased from RM850 to RM1,500 per month, the Pemanca allowance from RM700 to RM1,200 per month, and the Penghulu allowance from RM600 to RM1,000 per month.
A further adjustment was implemented in 2018, with the monthly allowance for Temenggong increased to RM1,600, Pemanca to RM1,300, Penghulu to RM1,100, while Ketua Kaum began receiving RM900 per month.
“KMKK welfare continues to be enhanced through an average monthly allowance increase of RM400, effective Jan 1, 2026. This brings the monthly allowance for a Temenggong to RM2,000, Pemanca to RM1,700, Penghulu to RM1,500 and Ketua Kaum to RM1,300,” he said.
Tiang, who is also the Pelawan assemblyman, said there are currently 60 community leaders and 1,003 ketua kaum in Sibu Division.
Of the total, 415 serve in Sibu District, 363 in Kanowit District, and 285 in Selangau District.
