Social media allows local authorities to engage with public after office hours, says minister
Friday, 17 Aug 2018
Dr Sim (in white shirt) leading MPP councillors to cut a cake during the council’s 22nd anniversary celebration.
KUCHING: Local authorities should make use of mobile technology to serve the public more efficiently.
State Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian said mobile apps such as WhatsApp enable residents to engage directly with councils at all hours, compared to a hotline which was only manned during office hours.
For example, he said the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) started using WhatsApp last year for the public to forward suggestions and complaints.
A new mobile app called iPeople has also been introduced and is being tested by the Kuching South City Council (MBKS).
“The app allows the public to make complaints and give feedback to MBKS.
“They can take photos and send it through the app for the council to take action.
“After the pilot trial by MBKS, we hope to extend the app to other councils,” Dr Sim said at MPP’s 22nd anniversary celebration at the council’s headquarters yesterday.
He also called on local authorities to engage in community development, apart from providing municipal services.
“Residents should be empowered to be the eyes and ears of the council, for example by monitoring the performance of grass-cutting contractors.
“Through resident involvement and good governance, we can make our areas a better place to live in,” he said.
Earlier MPP chairman Lo Khere Chiang said the council would be accountable to the local communities through active engagement.
“The council’s functions also include community development.
“Engagement with local communities will enable us to carry this out more effectively.”
He added MPP would also provide opportunities for residents to get involved and participate in shaping their own communities.
This included working with the council to improve the environment and promote a better quality of life in Padawan.
Lo said MPP would promote good governance through transparent leadership.
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