Ting: Set up special units for efficiency
The Star 27/08/1999 By Foong Pek Yee
PETALING JAYA: The Housing and Local Government Ministry has directed local authorities to set up special units to resolve public complaints more
efficiently.
Minister Datuk Dr Ting Chew Peh said yesterday that the units should undertake a pro-active approach to enable a systematic, faster and efficient
way of servicing the people.
It should oversee existing approaches--in receiving (via hotline or in writing) and resolving complaints--which varied from one local authority to
another.
He added that the public often complained about difficulties in putting forward their complaints as well as the delay by local authorities in
handling and resolving them.
Dr Ting said common complaints ranged from clogged drains, poor garbage management, potholes and floods to late issuance of certificate of fitness
for occupation.
"The performance of local authorities, being 'nearest' to the people, often has a direct and immediate impact on the people's daily lives.
"Besides being pro-active, they must also act fast and efficiently at all times.
"Local authorities must also have the initiative and undertake a preventive approach to reduce problems in the long run," Dr Ting said after
presenting RM2.2mil in grants to 12 local authorities in Selangor in lieu of rates for 1999.
It (unit) should also undertake public education to create awareness on the importance of the people's role, co-operation and responsibility in
creating and maintaining a healthy living environment, he added.
Based on his ministry's experience, Dr Ting said many people are still unaware of the role of local authorities.
For instance, he said that some still complained to the ministry about late issuance of CFs although it was issued by their respective local
authorities.
Some complainants also forwarded their complaints on clogged drains, potholes and poor garbage management to the ministry instead of to the local
authorities which were in charge.
