A TOTAL of 24 councillors have been sworn in to serve Iskandar Puteri City Council (MBIP) for a 20-month term from now until December next year.
The new line-up includes 12 Umno members, eight from MCA, two from MIC and two special appointments from non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
There are 11 new faces in total.
MBIP mayor Datuk Haffiz Ahmad said he hoped the newly appointed councillors would give their full commitment in carrying out their duties for the benefit of the community, traders, investors and those visiting their areas.
“Among the roles and responsibilities of a councillor is to be the messenger and spokesperson for the local council.
“They also have a duty to represent the local community and the people’s interest, not the interest of any specific group that is not in line with the needs of the community.
“On top of that, councillors are also among those involved in shaping the policies made for the local council.
“This is to ensure that the policies made by the local council do not cause any distress to the public and is in line with the government’s policies,” he said at the swearing-in ceremony at Menara MBIP in Johor Baru.
He also reminded the councillors to abide by the Local Government Act 1976, which prohibits them from being directly involved in any company to get contracts.
“A councillor who has an interest in a contract, either directly or indirectly, should not attend any meetings involving the matter.
“They must abide by these rules and focus completely to fulfilling the responsibilities that have been given to them,” he added.
Meanwhile, first-time councillor Nur Diyana Rail, 35, hopes her new role will allow her to serve the community better, especially on matters involving cleanliness and affordable housing.
“I’m excited to serve the people but I’m also feeling nervous as I know that this is a huge responsibility. I will do my best.
“I have been actively involved in several NGOs, where I helped out as a volunteer.
“Now that I have a more official platform, I believe I will be able to do more for the community,” said Nur Diyana, who is the Puteri Umno chief for the Iskandar Puteri division.
Another first-time councillor, Chang Swee Meng, 46, said he hoped to contribute to the development of Iskandar Puteri, especially in terms of economy.
“Iskandar Puteri has a lot of potential, especially in attracting investors.
“We play an important role in ensuring that this area continues to live up to its fullest potential.
“I hope to not only serve the local community but also boost the country’s economy to ensure that the people have a more secure and stable future,” said Chang, who is with the Iskandar Puteri MCA division.
S. Ragu, 54, who had previously served as a councillor in MBIP from 2020 to the end of July this year, hopes to continue being the voice of the people.
“The most important thing for us as councillors is to bring forward issues affecting the people as they are taxpayers.
“It is a big responsibility that needs to be handled well.
“I hope that my experience as a councillor will help better serve the people in my second term,” said Ragu, who is the Kulai MIC division chief.