RM1,000 gift to 3,983 Native Chiefs
Published on: Sun, May 04, 2025 Text Size: Joachim also expressed his appreciation for the extraordinary commitment and dedication of JHEANS staff in ensuring the department's continued role in promoting the well-being of Sabahans. Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Department of Native Affairs (JHEANS) has implemented various governance transformations and service enhancements, making it more efficient, responsive, and people-friendly, said Deputy Chief Minister II and Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam. These achievements include the integration of ICT technology, restructuring of the native court administrative system and improved professionalism in service delivery. 'I welcome these reform efforts, which clearly show that JHEANS is on the right track in empowering the institution of native customs in the state,' he said during the Sabah JHEANS 2024 Excellent Service Awards (APC) ceremony at Le Meridien Hotel. Joachim also expressed his appreciation for the extraordinary commitment and dedication of JHEANS staff in ensuring the department's continued role in promoting the well-being of Sabahans. He said civil servants are not merely policy implementers but serve as vital connectors between the government and the people, and therefore, the quality of public service must always be strengthened. Joachim added that the awards presented not only recognize individual excellence but also serve as an inspiration for fellow colleagues to continue serving with integrity and trust. Joachim is confident that JHEANS is capable of strengthening the enforcement of Native Laws in Sabah and becoming a pillar in preserving the state's cultural heritage. He said the department must continue to foster a positive work culture and lead based on the six core values of Malaysia Madani — Sustainability, Prosperity, Innovation, Respect, Trust and Compassion. During the event, he announced special financial assistance of RM1,000 for 3,983 Native Chiefs across the state, to be distributed before this year's Kaamatan Festival. 'This assistance is a token of appreciation for the contributions and service of Native Chiefs in maintaining community harmony and strengthening the Native Court under the State Government's leadership,' Joachim said. He congratulated all award recipients and expressed hope that the excellence celebrated would serve as motivation to continue delivering outstanding service in the future. Joachim also took the opportunity to wish everyone a Happy Tadau Kaamatan. Also present were Assistant Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Isnin Aliasnih; Deputy Permanent Secretary II, Faridah Giau; Director of JHEANS, Haji Nordin Lossin; Kunak District Officer and former JHEANS Director, Majaran Osman and Deputy Director (Administration), Noraisah Saiman. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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