KULAI: Local councils in Johor have been told to take necessary action in response to public complaints within three months of their being made.
Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Osman Sapian said a local council’s efficiency is measured by its ability to swiftly resolve public complaints.
“Councillors must ensure that all complaints received from the public are given immediate attention. I have set a three-month target for local councils to take the necessary actions on all public complaints,” he said.
Osman said local councils must also enhance promotion efforts of all government policies, initiatives, incentives and programmes in their jurisdictions.
“They must do it quickly and accurately, so that the people know about everything that the government is implementing,” he added.
Osman said this in his speech at the swearing-in ceremony of Kulai Municipal Council (MPKu) councillors.
The event saw 12 new MPKu councillors being sworn-in, which brings the total number of MPKu councillors to 24.
Also present were MPKu president Mohammed Shakib Ali and Kulai district officer Mohd Khir Johari Salleh.
Osman also urged councillors to equip themselves with the knowledge and understanding of the function, role and duty of a councillor.
“Councillors have to be aware of a council’s affairs and be concerned and pay attention to all problems in the area,” said Osman.
He said councillors should be the bridge between the people and government departments, regardless of their background.
“You have to strengthen your contributions based on honesty, so that the people will not have a negative view of the government,” he added.
Osman told councillors to think of themselves as “mini assemblymen” who are always close to the people.
“I also hope the councillors will carry out their duties with honesty, and not be involved in anything negative, like corruption,” he added.