By: Aida Aziz
IPOH: The Ipoh City Council (MBI), the largest local authority (PBT) in Perak, continues to serve as a benchmark for other councils in areas of urban governance and public service delivery.
According to Perak Executive Councillor for Housing and Local Government, Sandrea Ng, public expectations of MBI are high given its status as a city council.
She said the public does not assess development solely through large-scale projects, but through daily experiences such as environmental cleanliness, road and drain conditions, street lighting, waste management and service efficiency.
She added that councillors must act as a bridge between the government and the community by going to the ground, understanding local issues, and ensuring that complaints and public concerns are addressed effectively.
“Ipoh’s recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Music, along with its heritage and tourism city status, brings with it the expectation that development must not only take place physically, but also enhance the living experience and wellbeing of the people.
“As the state capital, Ipoh carries the important responsibility of being Perak’s main showcase.
“The number of complaints received reflects the high expectations the public has of MBI. However, these expectations must be met with real action.
“Complaints cannot merely be recorded but must be followed by concrete solutions, continuous monitoring and clear feedback to the people.
“In reality, the public evaluates the government based on solutions they can feel, not simply on plans or reports,” she said.
She said this during the MBI Oath-Taking Ceremony held here on Monday.
Sandrea stressed that the role of councillors demands responsibility, discipline and strong commitment, as every decision and action at the local council level has a direct impact on residents’ daily lives.
“Councillors represent the community’s voice, and teamwork as well as cross-departmental coordination must be strengthened to ensure issues are resolved comprehensively, without a silo working culture.
“It is hoped that MBI will continue to lead as a role model for other local councils in Perak.
“Administrative efficiency, effective service delivery and a professional work culture should set the standard for other districts,” she added.
In the new term appointment ceremony for March 2026 to 2028, a total of 24 councillors were appointed, including eight new councillors, four from Parti Keadilan Rakyat, two from Amanah and two from Barisan Nasional.
