local council 3

Kayveas is right about councils Michael Ng Oct 7, 05 2:49pm


I read with interest the statement by the Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department M Kayveas that he will apologise if the public says he's wrong over his recent statement that some local authorities operate like secret societies. First and foremost, there is nothing the deputy minister need to apologise for because the statements made by him were fair comment. Every ratepayer is aware that some of our councillors are either sleeping on the job or simply incompetent in carrying out the duties entrusted upon them. This is the result of having appointed councillors instead of elected ones who are answerable to the people. These appointees are only good at attending meetings and agreeing to whatever that is on the agenda. So to say they are mere rubber stamps is not far from the truth. When the president of the Malaysian Association of Local Authorities said that all council meeting are open to the public and anyone can attend and follow the proceedings, I wonder which local authority he was referring to. As far as I know, the media and members of the public are not welcomed at such council meetings though they have every right to be there. Sometimes I wonder why the secrecy? Could it be that they were debating 'serious matters' like when and who should be going for the next 'lawatan sambil belajar' trips overseas on taxpayers' expense? To say Kayveas' statement will de-motivate council employees who will feel their efforts are not being appreciated is utter nonsense. When proper services are rendered, members of the public will definitely appreciate it. However, if the council constantly cites the excuse of lacking in manpower for its own inadequacies, then the people have every right to be angry. More so, when certain local councils go round replacing street lamps when the previous ones were only installed not too long ago. They should put a stop to frivolous expenditure, so that it will have sufficient funds to engage more staff to get the job done. Further, the local council rarely shows that it is responsible for the well-being of residents who are affected by its decisions. If at all they are required to demonstrate their compassionate side, it will organise dialogue sessions to hear grouses but at the end of the day, the decision of the council normally stands despite valid reasons given by the affected parties. Lastly, I would urge Kayveas not to let up in his pursuit. Many Malaysians agree with you and they cannot be wrong.