ALOR STAR: Excellent public services provided by local authorities will promote orderly municipalities and uphold compliance with local government regulations, said Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor.
Sanusi said such steps are crucial for Malaysian cities to reach higher standards, similar to local authorities in developed nations.
He said proper enforcement through laws such as the Local Government Act 1976 (Act 171) and Town and Country Planning Act 1976 (Act 172) is essential.
"In London, people fear the local council enough to avoid violations.
They even seek permission before trimming tree branches.
"Here, people feel free to chop trees as they like, expecting the local council to clean up afterwards.
"With the capacity of all local authorities to enforce the laws under either Act 171 or Act 172, citizens will adhere, and life in our cities will be more orderly," he said during the closing ceremony of the Malaysian Association of Local Authorities (Mala) Sports Championship yesterday.
However, Sanusi said, that local authorities should aim to provide exceptional services, instead of seeking to impose undue financial demands on citizens.
"This isn't about extorting money from the people. We levy taxes and deliver services. When the public is satisfied with our services, they'll willingly pay.
"Insya-Allah, I pray all local councils nationwide will achieve a level of prestige that we can be proud of," he said.
He said associations for local authorities, such as Mala, can help councils collaborate and address various issues effectively.
He said local authority associations act as unified, supportive bodies that promote and strengthen local governments in Malaysia, aligning with their counterparts worldwide.
The Mala Sports Championship has chosen Alor Star to host nine-a-side football and netball events for local authorities this year.
A total of 49 local authorities participated in the nine-a-side football event, while 31 took part in the netball tournament.