Hajiji: Active, principled district councillors vital to realising state development policies

Borneo Post

08-05-2025

Hajiji (seated centre) and guests pose with members of the Tuaran District Council (2025–2027) after the official swearing-in and presentation of appointment letters on Thursday.
TUARAN (May 8): Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor has underscored the crucial role of active and principled dstrict councillors (AMD) in supporting the effective implementation of Sabah's state development policies.
He emphasised that AMDs should not merely act as the voice of the people, but also serve as efficient agents in delivering government initiatives, particularly those outlined in the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan.
'Council members must be more proactive in delivering services to the people. They must be equipped with the necessary knowledge and understanding of their functions, roles and responsibilities.
'This is essential to ensure smooth policy implementation and efficient delivery of aid and development programmes in a transparent and accountable manner,' he said during the oath-taking and letter of appointment ceremony for the 2025–2027 Tuaran District Council members at Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort on Thursday.
He noted that the success of the SMJ Development Plan hinges on the commitment of all stakeholders, including local authorities (PBT) and AMDs.
AMDs, he added, must work hand-in-hand with the state government to disseminate policy information, government initiatives, and aid programmes right down to the grassroots level.
The Chief Minister also highlighted several ongoing and upcoming development projects in the Tuaran district, which include upgrades to essential infrastructure such as roads, water and electricity supply, tourism development and the strengthening of local entrepreneurship.
'No matter how large the development budget may be, it will be meaningless without efficient delivery. Council members must be on the ground, observing issues faced by the people and responding with integrity, sincerity and transparency,' he stressed.
Hajiji called on all council members to act as a vital bridge between the people and the government, voicing community concerns at administrative levels and ensuring every government policy and programme is well understood and embraced by the public.
He added that this latest cohort of Tuaran District Councillors comprises individuals from diverse backgrounds, including former civil servants, business figures, youth leaders and representatives of non-governmental organisations (NGOs), representing the four state constituencies of Sulaman, Pantai Dalit, Tamparuli and Kiulu.
'This diversity is a strength that will enable more comprehensive policymaking and more effective responses to the needs of the people.
'I believe that with strong commitment and a spirit of teamwork, the council members are fully capable of carrying out their responsibilities in the pursuit of Tuaran's progress and the well-being of its people,' he said.
Also present at the ceremony were State Rural Development Minister, Datuk Jahid Jahim; Assistant Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Isnin Aliasnih; Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai; Tuaran Member of Parliament, Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau and Pantai Dalit assemblyman Datuk Jasnih Daya.