KOTA KINABALU: The decision by Tamparuli to hold simultaneous village elections involving 94 villages has been described as an important step towards strengthening grassroots governance in Sabah.
Former Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak said the move was not merely about setting a new record, but reflected a growing awareness that governance at the village level must become more structured, inclusive and accountable.
According to him, the development is closely aligned with the concept of a “Village Government” which he had previously proposed as a way to strengthen administration at the community level.
He noted that Malaysia currently has three levels of government — Federal, State and Local — but many daily issues affecting the people are often overlooked because decision-making processes remain too far removed from village communities.
“Village Government should be officially recognised as the fourth tier of administration with clearer powers and responsibilities,” he said in a Facebook posting.
Salleh, who is also Sabah UMNO Treasurer, said he had also proposed the introduction of a Village Government Enactment to be tabled and passed by the State Legislative Assembly, instead of relying solely on administrative arrangements or political appointments.
He said clear legislation would provide authority, accountability and continuity to village administrations, while ensuring village institutions continue functioning effectively despite political changes.
According to him, one of the key components of the proposal is the implementation of village elections to allow leaders to be directly elected by residents.
“Leaders elected directly by the people would have a stronger mandate and be more accountable to the community, rather than to certain political interests,” he said.
Salleh added that the experience in Tamparuli has proven that village-level elections are both practical and implementable, while also capable of strengthening cooperation, public participation and democratic maturity at the grassroots level.
“A strong village will produce a strong district, a strong state and ultimately a stronger Malaysia,” he said. -pr/BNN
