By Fitri Hazim Hazam
SHAH ALAM, Feb 14 – Village heads and members of the Village Community Management Council (MPKK) should play a bigger role in conveying the state government’s policies and programmes to residents.
Speaking at the Selangor MPKK Appreciation Ceremony, Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said they are also accountable for ensuring state assistance and services meant for the public are implemented effectively.
“The spirit embodied in the state administration is comprehensive. The slogan ‘Kita Selangor Maju Bersama’ means no citizen should be left behind or marginalised in this state.
“The most important thing is that the support and assistance given by the state government should reach the targeted groups, particularly those in need,” he said, here, last night.
Amirudin also presented awards to the best traditional villages of the respective districts, a special award to the best overall MPKK and the Village Head Icon special award at the event.
Also present were state executive councillor for rural development Datuk Rizam Ismail, state executive councillor for agriculture Izham Hashim, state executive councillor for Islam Fahmi Ngah, and Deputy State Speaker Mohd Kamri Kamaruddin.
According to Amirudin, village heads and MPKK members played a crucial role during the Covid-19 pandemic and flood disaster from the 2020 to 2021 period.
“I hope all members will continue to offer assistance, despite some not being reappointed. Please continue to raise awareness and instil confidence within the community,” he said.
Meanwhile, Rizam said a total of 373 village heads and MPKK chairmen attended last night’s event to celebrate their contributions.
“The ceremony is meant to appreciate the contributions and services provided by community leaders. The village heads and their leadership lineup throughout the entire state play a role as representatives of the state government at the grassroots level.
“Despite going through various hurdles, village heads and community leaders continue to provide their utmost commitment for the people of Selangor,” he said.
During the ceremony, 29 village heads and MPPK chairmen were honoured with various awards, with 27 of them receiving the Traditional Village Award, bringing home RM1,000 in cash, a certificate and plaque each.
Kampung Sungai Apong, Sabak Bernam won the overall Best MPKK Traditional Village special award, receiving RM1,500 in cash.
The Village Head Icon special award, meanwhile, was given to Mohamad Hanafiah Hussin, who is the Kuala Pangsu village head in Hulu Langat. He takes home RM300, a certificate and plaque.
Speaking to the press after the ceremony, Hanafiah attributed his victory to the unwavering support and cooperation of the residents, which enabled him to deliver exemplary service to the community.
“The award serves as a great motivation for me to continue delivering the best service to the residents in my locality.
“My primary objective currently is to foster the development of the tourism sector in Gunung Nuang. I intend to forge partnerships with non-governmental organisations and state tourism associations to materialise this,” he said.
