More bite for Rukun Tetangga

JOHOR BAHARU,Nov 25 (New Sabah Times) --- The Rukun Tetangga (RT) movement in the country is to get a new look and adopt a new approach if things work out.

The proposal for the changes is being compiled and is expected to be submitted to the Cabinet in the next two months for approval, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili said here yesterday.

Speaking after the launch of the Malaysian Solidarity Carnival (Southern Region) at the Mawar COmplex, he told reporters that among the changes to be proposed are the installation of fully equipped new cabins or rental of medium-sized shoplots for the RT activities.

"If there are RT bases on idle land, then we can consider building permanent bases on it," he added.

Also in the proposal is the issue of leave for those who have done the neighbourhood patrol duty the night before.

"We have recommended that those who have done four hours of patrol work after midnight should be given leave the next day. But, at the same time, we know that the private sector employer is going to lose out in terms of lost man hours if we adopt such move.

"So we have to seek a fair balance and have recommended that each person does the four-hour post-midnight patrol once in two weeks only," he added.

There are now a total of 3,610 RT bases nationwide, up from the 2,400 three years ago.

"The growing number shows that people like the idea of having an RT base in their neighbourhood, where so many social activities take place. There is the kindergarten, the sports activities and, of course, the night patrol," said Ongkili.

Earlier, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman told the gathering that Johor has the most number of RT bases with 478, and 10,000 people providing voluntary service.