SANDAKAN: Newly-appointed Sandakan Municipal Councillors took their oath of office on Tuesday in a ceremony witnessed by Sabah’s Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif.
Speaking at a press conference after the event, Arifin expressed his hope that both the new and existing councillors would contribute meaningful ideas for the development of Sandakan. Also present was Sandakan Municipal Council president Datuk Walter Kenson.
He also praised the MPS for strengthening collaborations with various partners, including the media, which he described as a vital channel for disseminating accurate information and promoting the council’s role to the public.
On the same occasion, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between MPS and its strategic partners – the Sandakan United Chinese Community Association, the Sandakan Chinese Chamber of Commerce, as well as Merdeka Daily News and TV Sabah.
Arifin said he hoped such strategic ties would continue to drive close cooperation, particularly in developing the Sandakan district.
Arifin welcomed MPS’s initiative to allocate 30 percent of business opportunities to youth, including the provision of stalls and commercial spaces to boost young people’s economic participation.
“The digitalisation of services also aligns with the government’s aspiration to improve service delivery efficiency,” he added.
On a related note, the minister said his ministry had taken note of urgent needs regarding site cleanliness, and stressed the role of the council’s management and councillors in ensuring the effectiveness of concession services.
Regarding the recent fire early Sunday morning at Kampung Bahagia, Sandakan, Arifin informed that Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor had announced aid for the victims on Monday. The Sabah Islamic Religious Council also contributed to ease their burden.
“We deeply sympathise with their situation and will continue to find ways to help as much as we can,” he said. – James Leong
Arifin praised the MPS for strengthening collaborations with various partners.
