KUCHING: Special Assistant to Stampin Members of Parliament Michael Kong welcome all who seek for help, regardless of whether a report has been made or whether they are the first or final stop.
“We fully understand that not everyone is familiar with the proper channels — and even if they are, those channels sometimes fail them.
“Our commitment remains unchanged: to be people-oriented, accessible, and focused on work that truly makes a difference.
“As community leaders, we have a responsibility to stand with the people, not to turn them away. That is the difference between merely holding a title and truly carrying the responsibility that comes with it, ” he explained.
Kong expressed his disappointing referring to a video recently emerged showing Sentosa State Assemblyman, Wilfred Yap who expressed his frustration over members of the public approaching him directly to raise concerns.
“With all due respect, such a remark is disappointing coming from an elected representative as Yap seemed to miss the core of what people are going through.
“The reality is that many individuals have already tried going through the appropriate channels or through community leaders, only to find their efforts unanswered.
“When these avenues lead nowhere, the people naturally turn to their elected representatives, hoping someone in a position of influence will take their concerns seriously.Telling the public not to approach him unless it is absolutely necessary comes across as distant and dismissive. It is exactly this kind of attitude that weakens public confidence in those entrusted to serve them, “he said.
Earlier on, Yap went on to say that such matters should be directed to Talikhidmat or the relevant authorities first, and that he should only be approached as a last resort.
Kong even added that if Yap finds it inconvenient to listen to the people, he, will do so including the Democratic Action Party (DAP) members.
By Connie Chieng