Appointments of community leaders and headmen are a great trust and a manifestation of leadership at the grassroots level, says Tamin YB

 

SELANGAU, Feb 12 2026: Tamin state legislative member (SLM) Christopher Gira has stressed the importance of the appointments of community leaders and village headmen, saying that it is not just a matter of filling positions, but rather a great trust and a manifestation of leadership at the grassroots level.

Christopher Gira: Community leaders and headmen are a pillar of community stability and is the main link between the government and the people at the grassroots level. 

He said the strength of a state does not only start from development in major cities, but rather is centered on the stability and progress of villages and rural areas.

"Rural communities do not ask for everything. They only want to ensure that they are not left out of the development stream. Real development is development that can be felt by all," he said.

He was  speaking at the presentation of appointment certificate to the community leaders and headmen for Selangau district for the 2026–2027 term yesterday.

As a rural representative, he understands the aspirations of the rural community who yearn for basic amenities, economic opportunities and leadership that can defend their fate.

He said community leaders and headmen are a pillar of community stability and is the main link between the government and the people at the grassroots level.

“They are like the roots of a tree. If the roots are strong, then the tree will not fall easily. That is how important their role is in ensuring that the unity and harmony of the community is always maintained," he said.

He said  the state government through the 2026 Budget has agreed to increase their allowance to RM400 per month in recognition of the increasingly challenging responsibilities.

However, he reminded that their appointments are the beginning of a greater trust and every course or programme that involve them must obtain the approval of the District Office and the Resident's Office to ensure its implementation is in line with the state's development policies and plans.

Gira expressed his concern on the issue of several longhouses that still do not have an official appointment of Tuai Rumah even though they have met the requirements.

"A village without a Tuai Rumah is like a country without representatives. Every village has the right to have a leader who is able to guide, unite and drive development," he said, hoping that the Tuai Rumah quota can be considered for increase next year.