Sean, flanked by Sylvia (front, left) and Macgyver, in a group photo with the programme participants.
SIBU (Sept 10): Leaders and government officers must remain committed to undertaking their responsibilities while having a sound understanding of the relevant laws, regulations and procedures governing their duties, said Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh.
The Bawang Assan assemblyman said such knowledge is crucial as good intentions alone are not enough to ensure such responsibilities are carried out fairly, transparently and responsibly.
“Rules should not be viewed as obstacles; rather, they are guidelines to ensure that every action is taken correctly and in accordance with the established procedures.
“Cooperation and unity are also important as no individual or department can solve every problem alone. We must work as a team,” he said in a speech for the closing ceremony of the ‘2026 Professionalism Enhancement Programme for Village and Community Institutions of DUN N.53 Bawang Assan’ here Tuesday.
His speech was read by Councillor Sean Wong.
Also present were Sibu Resident’s Office administrative officer Macgyver Boi, and Sibu District Office administrative officer Sylvia Lau.
Adding on, Soon Koh said as Bawang Assan assemblyman, it was his role as a coordinator and facilitator between the local community leaders, government officers and the relevant agencies.
“Close cooperation with the district officers and those from the Resident’s Office is important in ensuring that government policies are implemented effectively at the grassroots level.
“The diversity of the community in Bawang Assan should be our strength, not a source of division,” he said.
Soon Koh, who is Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) senior vice-president, said expectations towards public services and leadership had become increasingly high, with the people demanding efficient services, transparent governance and leaders who would genuinely listen to and understand their concerns.
“Therefore, programmes such as this are not merely routine events, but are seen as an important investment in developing capable and trustworthy grassroots leadership.
“The knowledge and skills gained through this programme must be translated into real improvements in the way we deliver services to the community,” he said.