KUCHING: Village chieftains and headmen (Tuai Rumah) are encouraged to resolve minor issues such as land boundaries, family disputes and customary and cultural matters within their communities.
For more complex issues, they may seek guidance from the chieftain (penghulu) or refer the matter to the district office.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan made this call when presenting certificates to 56 village headmen and a chieftain at his service centre in Balai Ringin.
He was officiating at the ‘Kursus Kepimpinan Akar Umbi’, a leadership training course for chieftains, village headmen and members of the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK), organised by the Pantu District Office in collaboration with the Balai Ringin Sub-District Office.
“These certificates serve as an empowerment tool, enabling them to assist the government in resolving local issues within their jurisdiction,” Snowdan said.
He added that by doing so, they would help alleviate the workload of the district office and other government agencies, particularly in facilitating development projects such as road construction.
However, he urged them to exercise their authority responsibly and avoid misuse.
Snowdan also encouraged village leaders to keep records of local issues in notebooks and improve their digital literacy to enhance efficiency.
Additionally, he advised the JKKK to hold meetings regularly – at least six times a year – and ensure village residents are informed of the outcomes.
Meanwhile, Pantu District officer Raca Mulong urged village headmen to support government development projects designed for the benefit of the people.
The workshop was attended by approximately 450 JKKK members from Pantu District.
