Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Abdul Rahman Dahlan (pic) has refuted allegations that the newly-introduced Residents Representatives Committees (JPP) will encroach into the powers of local governments.
"It is an unfounded and wild allegation," he told a press conference at the Parliament lobby today.
He explained that the JPP had no enforcement powers and was set up as a "bridge" between the Federal Government and the people in urban areas.
"The people will be given the space needed to discuss issues under the jurisdiction of the federal government, such as education and health, with the JPP," Abdul Rahman added.
He pointed out that the problems in urban areas were “complex” and local councils could not deal with all the issues.
"There must be co-operation between the local councils, state government and the federal government,” he said.
Last week, several Pakatan Rakyat leaders had insisted that the setting up of the JPP was Putrajaya trying to exert power over state matters.
Kota Baru MP Datuk Takiyuddin Hassan had also argued that setting up the JPP was a violation of the Federal Constitution.
However, Abdul Rahman said his ministry had checked the matter with the Attorney-General's Chambers, which confirmed that it did not violate the Constitution.
"This is because the JPP has no enforcement powers and is merely for administrative purposes," he explained.
The minister gave his assurance that the allocation for local councils would not be reduced and still be channelled to them.
"The local councils will still have their powers as stipulated under the Constitution and will still have the same responsibilities." - November 12, 2013.
Post a Comment