DEPUTY Chief Minister II cum Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam said Penampang is ready for Municipal Council status and expects the transition to be complete within three months.
Now managed by a District Council, he said, it would result in better and more services to residents.
“It is still not decided as to who will be the first President of the Municipality.
“However, there will be an increase in the number of councillors comprising professionals who can really help the Municipal Council,” he said when launching the countdown as a symbolic for the Penampang District Council transition to Penampang Municipal Council held at the District Council compound in Penampang on Jan 2.
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He hoped Council members would exercise efficient and high-integrity governance, digitise service delivery for stakeholders, find new revenue sources as well as implement sustainable financial management.
“These are very important to drive the development of a PBT (municipality),” he said, adding any decision or policy that is implemented must get feedback with the involvement of community leaders.
As for the expected increase in assessment rates, he said, the matter is still being addressed. Hence, none would be collected initially.
“This issue is not finalised yet please don’t jump the gun,” he said.
He said other matters to be resolved include the district’s boundary.
Previously, the District Officer reported to the Rural Development Ministry. However, as a Municipality he would report to the Local Government and Housing Ministry.
Dr Joachim said most of the functions of the Council and District Office would merge, adding the staff would also expect changes.
“There will be departments to look after rural areas. Functions and duties will be more challenging due to expectations from the public,” he said.
“Existing staff of both the Council and District Office will have to increase their performance including in digitalisation. This will reduce the need for ratepayers to come to the office by using computers and smartphones instead.
“The Council also has assets which can be developed by itself or via joint venture which can improve the economy. Rates must also be collected fully to attain self-sufficiency which is a priority,” he said.
Assistant Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Isnin Aliasnih, Kapayan Assemblywoman Jannie Lasimbang, Senators Datuk John Ambrose and Datuk Noraini Idris, Penampang MP representative Carl Mosoom and Ministry’s Permanent Secretary Datuk Dr Jamili Nais.
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