KOTA KINABALU: The primary role of an elected State Assemblyman is to serve his constituents.
Before running for election to represent their constituencies, they should ponder on whether they are ready to serve without reservation, Terence Tsen Treasurer of Parti Kerjasama Anak Negeri said.
He was referring to a Facebook insertion by YB Jenifer Lasimbang, the State Assemblywoman of Moyog stating that she was ” Getting sick and tired of getting phone calls; WhatsApp and emails from PARENTS asking me to look for a job for their children – unemployed GRADUATES!”
Terence said her statement did not reflect the commitment of an elected representative by the people.
“She has apologised publicly, but I think it should not be taken lightly. She should have approached the issue professionally and tactfully,” he said.
He added that as the Assistant Minister of Education and Innovation, she should show concern about education and subsequently the graduates employment.
She should also be developing innovative programs to improve skills and competence of school leavers or local graduates to make them more attractive to employers.
Further as a new government Minister, she should be seeking the advise of Senior Ministers especially the Chief Minister or actively seek the advise of state agencies and leaders of big companies and industries to discuss solutions or address such problems, he stressed.
As a law maker, she should work with other law makers, top administrative officials and the private sector to formulate government policies conducive to the creation of better business environment and creation of more employment opportunities for jobless youths.
“It is understandable that she could not offer employment to everyone but stating that she is sick and tired of parents contacting her about jobs for their children’s, is uncalled for.”
According to him, all parents want the best for their children and most try to help by helping them to get jobs.
He said her attitude reflected badly on herself as well as her portfolio and the party she represented.
“I believe this is the time for her and the State Government to serve the people according to their party manifesto,” he stated.
They managed to be where they are now partly through their party manifesto, now it’s time to deliver, he said.-pr/BNN
