Effective leadership involves listening, good communication, Tiong tells community leaders, village heads

SIBU (Nov 29): Community leaders and village heads (KMKK) have been reminded that effective leadership does not solely rest on the ability to lead, but also on the ability to listen, communicate effectively and collaborate with all levels of society.

It is also equally important that they, including village security and development committee (JKKK) secretaries, strengthen their relationship and collaborate with the authorities and all stakeholders in empowering the wellbeing and progress of villages, said federal Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Dato Sri Tiong King Sing.

“Our duties do not end at leading; they also include listening and paying attention to every need and challenge faced by the community.

“I would also like to remind you that effective leadership does not solely rest on the ability to lead but also on the ability to listen, communicate effectively, and collaborate with all levels of society.

“Let us continue to strengthen our roles as responsible leaders and work together to create a brighter future for our villages, particularly in the Sibu District and Dudong constituency,” the Dudong assemblyman said.

Tiong’s text speech was read by his special administrative officer Agatha Ting, who represented him at the opening and closing ceremony of a programme for KMKK and JKKK secretaries for Dudong constituency yesterday.

Tiong pointed out that the programme was not just about providing additional knowledge, but more importantly, it offered participants all the opportunity to reinforce their roles and responsibilities as community leaders, village heads and JKKK secretaries.

“You are the cornerstone of your respective communities. You are the eyes and ears of the people, the link between the community and the authorities, and the catalysts for change that bring positive transformation to village life.

“You are the ones closest to the people, understanding their problems and challenges. This role is by no means an easy task, but it is a responsibility of utmost importance.”

The JKKK secretaries, on the other hand, play an equally crucial role in the management and administration of villages, he said.

Meanwhile, at the same event, 65 JKKKs received the ‘Tadbir Urus’ incentives for this year, while five other JKKKs qualified for the ‘Sejati Madani’ programme.

JKKK Ulu Durin was named Excellent JKKK for 2023 and 2024.

Among those present were Abdul Malik Hashim, representing Sibu Resident; Sylvia Lau, representing Sibu district officer; and Sophia Gira, representing the Sarawak Economic Planning Unit director.