COUNCILLORS must deliver effectively, said Melaka Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Tey Kok Kiew.
Councillors should be seen serving the people because they are ratepayers.
They ought to know what they must do and can do, and what they can’t and must not.
Serving in local councils isn’t about getting a hike in your monthly allowances and other fees.
I see some councils did it last year. Could they have not waited and did some work first? Why the hurry?
I was a former municipal councillor. I was appointed and I did my job well.
I remember once I had to cover the Rahang area, which has a large multiracial community. I drove around to survey the area and get feedback from the people.
Councillors also helped people with problems relating to garbage collection, clogged drains and floods.
By and large, we championed local issues, had them discussed and implemented. We acted as the eyes and ears of the community.
But today, some councillors do not act accordingly. There is much to be done as the tasks are many and varied.
They must be competent in their jobs, and perform to expectations of ratepayers. I know some councillors are not performing.
There is no time to lose. Get some skills, do your job.
You must deliver. If you can’t, quit. You have to be passionate about serving the people. And serve all Malaysians, even those who did not vote for you.
Today is a new Malaysia and much has changed since May 9 last year. Serving the people can be a rewarding experience. Mine was, and I cherish it.
Bulbir Singh, Seremban, Negri Sembilan