RANAU: Deputy Chief Minister II and Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Seri Dr. Joachim Gunsalam, announced that the State Cabinet has unanimously agreed to maintain the positions of all customary leaders, with a few exceptions.
Those who are unable to work due to illness or other issues, as well as cases where a replacement is requested by a government representative, will be considered for changes.
During the ceremony of handing over traditional shirts to customary leaders in the Kundasang State Constituency on Thursday, Dr. Joachim, who is also a Kundasang assemblyman, commended the organisers for successfully bringing together 100 traditional leaders, including Native Chiefs (KAN), Deputy Native Chiefs (WKAN), Chinese Community Leaders, and Village Heads.
This event demonstrated the government’s commitment, through the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah-Pakatan Harapan (GRS-PH) Plus coalition, to address the needs of all individuals, including traditional holders, he added.
Furthermore, he said the state government has increased the allowances for traditional holders since September last year.
Dr. Joachim urged all traditional holders to continue supporting the current ruling government, emphasising their crucial role as part of the grassroots machinery that assists the government.
He reminded customary leaders of their responsibility to carry out their duties diligently and maintain a secure atmosphere within the local community.
However, he also warned that the government will not hesitate to take action against any customary leaders who criticise its policies or actions.
