TING REMINDS SMC COUNCILLORS TO PRIORITISE DUTY OVER PERSONAL INTEREST

SIBU, April 30 (Bernama) -- Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) chairman Clarence Ting Ing Horh has issued a stern reminder to all councillors to separate personal interests from their official responsibilities, stressing that their main duty is to serve the public and help improve Sibu town.

“If you want a contract, you better resign as a councillor. Only then can you bid for SMC contracts,” he said firmly during the council’s full meeting held here today.

Ting warned that any abuse of position for personal gain would not be tolerated and said he would not hesitate to report such misconduct directly to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

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He also urged councillors to treat SMC staff with respect and to work together with them in a spirit of cooperation rather than adopting a domineering approach.

“Don’t boss the staff around. Work with them and consult them on any issues that arise,” he advised.

Addressing complaints from councillors about their ward assignments, Ting encouraged them to voice their concerns and request reassignments rather than simply complain.

“Don’t just grumble. If you feel your assigned ward isn’t suitable, ask for a reassignment. We’ll make the necessary arrangements to help you serve the people better,” he said.

Ting also reminded councillors to set aside political affiliations when carrying out council duties and to focus solely on the needs of the community.

“All of you were selected by your respective parties within the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition. But once appointed, your duty is to serve the people within the council’s jurisdiction,” he stressed.

Today’s meeting was attended by all 28 councillors - 22 reappointed and six newly appointed, who were sworn in on April 15 for the 2025-2028 term.

-- BERNAMA