PUTRAJAYA: Empowering local governments and developing the potential of local authorities (PBTs) as an organisation that is financially resilient are among the seven key priorities of new Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming.

Nga who reported for duty today said he also wanted to draw up a more comprehensive housing plan by taking into account the issues of home ownership and construction as well as community empowerment so that their role in urban development can be strengthened.

"(This includes) managing solid waste effectively and efficiently by improving the waste-to-energy method. I would also like to see a better alternative to managing solid waste in the country using high-technology methods.

"...(besides that) strengthening the safe and smart city agenda. I also want to see the achievements and the effectiveness of the Malaysia Smart City Framework 2019-2025 ... I may also need to look at new indicators that are more viable and effective," he said at a press conference here today.

Also present were the ministry's secretary-general Datuk M Noor Azman Taib, deputy secretary-general (Management and Development) Muhammad Razman Abu Samah, deputy secretary-general (Housing and Community Well-being) Datuk Azhar Ahmad and deputy secretary-general (Planning and Sustainable Environment) Datuk Saidatu Akhma Hassan.


Nga said that he would be focussing on enhancing the Fire and Rescue personnel readiness in an effort to provide more efficient and effective services.

Meanwhile, the Teluk Intan MP said he fully supported the decision to cut the monthly salary of ministers by 20 per cent and announced that his office would also adopt a 'no gift policy' starting today.

"...this is a strong message that the Unity Government wants to convey that we work for the people.

"...beginning today, my office will adopt the 'No Gift' policy to reduce the burden of organisers. It is better that the money is given to the poor or asnaf (zakat recipients). This is more meaningful," he said.

Asked about the appointment of deputy ministers, Nga said it would be announced soon.

"The appointment of the Cabinet ministers including their deputies is the prerogative of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. I believe the matter is being discussed and it will be announced soon," he said.

On the proposal to re-introduce local government elections, he said the matter was not a priority at the moment.

-- BERNAMA