By Dewi Abdul Rahman
SHAH ALAM, Dec 18 — Urban cleanliness must not be taken lightly as it is a key indicator of the efficiency of local authorities, says state executive councillor for local government and tourism Dato’ Ng Suee Lim.
He stressed that city councillors play a crucial role in ensuring high standards of cleanliness and solid waste management through continuous monitoring, enforcement support and effective community engagement.
According to him, councillors are not merely policy messengers but act as vital links between the state government and the people, ensuring policies are implemented effectively at the grassroots level.
“They are responsible for overseeing public service performance, supporting enforcement efforts and fostering a culture of cleanliness within communities. The success of the state is not achieved in meeting rooms alone, but through consistent action on the ground every day,” he said.
Ng made the remarks while speaking at an appreciation ceremony for Selangor councillors for the 2024–2025 term here last night.
He added that the performance of councillors and local authorities reflects Selangor’s capacity to implement policies consistently, and remains a determining factor in sustaining the state’s development momentum.
He also praised local councils for improving service efficiency through digitalisation initiatives, including online tax and licence payments, which have made services more accessible to the public. The implementation of integrated solid waste management, he said, has helped raise Selangor’s recycling rate to 8.24 per cent.
Looking ahead, Ng announced that about 300 local councillors for the 2026–2027 term will be appointed beginning January 1, involving all 12 local authorities in Selangor. The appointments will be carried out in stages, with emphasis on integrity, administrative effectiveness and continuity in service delivery.
“The performance of appointed councillors will significantly influence public confidence in local governments and shape Selangor’s image as a clean, inclusive and resilient state,” he said, adding that the state government remains committed to appointing individuals who are capable, professional and fully prepared to shoulder their responsibilities.
He also underscored the importance of transparency and accountability in governance, as well as proactive action in addressing current challenges such as cleanliness, solid waste management, flooding, urban mobility and sustainable development.
Social inclusivity, he said, must continue to be strengthened to ensure no community is left behind, particularly women, youth, senior citizens and vulnerable groups.
Ng reiterated that strong local governance depends on councillors serving as policy drivers and facilitators between government and communities, calling on them to enter the new term with renewed commitment and higher standards of integrity and professionalism.
“The success of Selangor as a champion state with well-cared-for citizens is ultimately determined by the effectiveness of policy implementation on the ground. This is where the role of councillors becomes truly critical — as movers, facilitators and the voice of government to the people,” he said.
