DALAT – The Sarawak Government has announced a substantial rise in monthly allowances for Community Leaders and Village Heads (Ketua Masyarakat dan Ketua Kaum, KMKK), marking the largest adjustment in the institution’s history. Beginning 1 January 2026, each KMKK will receive an additional RM400 per month.
The decision revealed during the presentation of the 2026 Supply Bill by the Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, will benefit more than 7,700 leaders across the state. This includes Temenggong, Pemanca, Penghulu and Ketua Kaum, who play a crucial role in communicating government policies with local communities.
The Premier emphasised that these leaders are entrusted with maintaining social harmony, resolving disputes, and supporting the implementation of state initiatives.
According to Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, the increase reflects the government’s recognition of the increasingly complex responsibilities carried by KMKK.
She described the move as a commitment to enhancing professionalism and safeguarding the welfare of grassroots leadership.
Fatimah, speaking at the Dalat Welfare Complex during her address to KMKK representatives from the N56 Dalat Constituency, stressed that the allowance hike must be matched by higher standards of integrity and accountability.
“Therefore, I would like to stress that this allowance increase must be accompanied by higher standards of integrity, accountability and performance among KMKK to ensure that government policies and initiatives are delivered effectively to the people.” She said.
The minister also urged community leaders to remain proactive in disseminating accurate information and to act as agents of unity within Sarawak’s diverse society. She highlighted the importance of their role in preserving harmony in Dalat’s multi-ethnic and multicultural environment.
The allowance adjustment is aligned with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which prioritises improved service delivery and inclusive development. The government is hoping the financial support will motivate KMKK to strengthen their ties with communities and make sure policies reach the general population effectively.
The last revision to KMKK allowances was made in 2018, with a subtle RM100 increase. This latest adjustment represents a substantial increase, underscoring the government’s determination to value the contributions of community leaders.
While the change has been welcomed by many, some voices have called for greater accountability in how KMKK operate, noting that financial recognition should go hand-in-hand with transparency and community engagement.
Fortunately, the Dalat event confirmed the government’s stance that community leadership remains central to Sarawak’s development agenda.
The meeting also provided a platform to strengthen cooperation between representatives, government agencies and KMKK, assuring that the wellbeing of the people in Dalat and across Sarawak continues to be prioritised.
