SIBU: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has issued a stern warning to district and municipal councillors — and politicians — to refrain from meddling in the appointments of longhouse chiefs (tuai rumah) and village chiefs (ketua kampung).
The Dudong assemblyman and Bintulu MP said the selection of these leaders is the sole right of the residents, and any interference undermines the community’s autonomy.
In a statement, Tiong addressed multiple reports and complaints from residents about certain individuals covertly manipulating these elections.
He reiterated the importance of respecting the local election process, warning that any attempts to influence the outcome, particularly by those in authority, will not be tolerated.
“I want to stress to those attempting to stir up trouble that I have not lost touch with the situation in Sibu.
“I caution Pemancha and others not to use their power to veto or suppress the community’s choice of leaders based on political affiliations,” he said.
As such, Tiong said he has already reported the issue to Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, and the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP), saying they unanimously agreed that no political party should interfere in the appointment process of longhouse and village chiefs.
This authority, he insisted, should remain with the residents of the respective communities, and urged the District Office to handle the matter delicately and resolve it within a week.
“Due to these attempts at manipulating the appointments and deliberate delays, the renewal of appointment letters for 83 longhouse and village heads is still pending and the appointment leaders for three newly appointed leaders have not been issued.
“This must proceed to ensure that all 86 individuals are able to continue serving the people and resolving problems smoothly,” Tiong added.
With many documents requiring the signatures of longhouse and village leaders, the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) president lamented that any issues in the appointment process will cause significant difficulties for the people.
“Innocent people will ultimately suffer under the power struggles of politics,” he added.
He specifically pointed out that similar underhanded activities are occurring in Dudong, disrespecting the existing selection system.
He made it clear that he will not condone any abuse of power and warned of potential actions, including involving the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) if necessary.
“This is the final warning. Cease the scheming and deception,” Tiong stated firmly.
“All parties must adhere to the existing selection mechanism. Anyone continuing to abuse their power in this matter should not complain if the MACC is brought in to investigate.”
Additionally, he emphasised that the community’s support is for anyone who can genuinely serve, regardless of their political background.
“No party should treat this as a bargaining chip for their political maneuvers or force someone to join their party or toe a party line in order to be appointed,” said Tiong.
