Gov't Proposes Extending Rukun Tetangga Committee Term To Three Years - Aaron

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 29 (Bernama) -- The government has proposed extending the appointment duration for Rukun Tetangga (RT), or Neighbourhood Watch committees, from two years to three years per term, says National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.

He said the proposal, which fell under the Rukun Tetangga Act 2012 (Act 751), was expected to be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat this October.

Speaking at the national-level Golden Jubilee Celebration of Rukun Tetangga here today, Aaron said the appointment would still be limited to a maximum of two consecutive terms in the same area, totalling no more than six years.

“One of the main issues identified is that the current two-year term for RT committee members is too short and insufficient for them to fully implement their plans.

“This proposed amendment reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring Act 751 remains relevant, effective, and capable of strengthening the role of Rukun Tetangga as a key platform for community safety, wellbeing, and unity,” he said.

He said the proposed amendment was also crucial to enable RT committee members to carry out their responsibilities as outlined under Section 8 of Act 751.

According to Aaron, the Department of National Unity and Integration (JPNIN), the agency tasked with managing RT, has reviewed the provisions under the Act, as it has never been amended since it came into force on June 22, 2012.

“This review is vital to strengthen the role and function of RT and the Voluntary Patrol Scheme (SRS) as leaders in community safety and harmony,” he said.

In addition, under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), the National Integration Research and Training Institute (IKLIN) will be upgraded into a centre of excellence to expand research activities and enhance training, particularly to provide integrated and targeted training for Progressive Neighbourhood Watch Area (KRT) leaders.

“With this new mandate, I hope IKLIN will intensify its efforts in providing integrated and targeted training, especially for Progressive KRT leaders,” Aaron said.

Meanwhile, he also suggested that KPN prepare a Cabinet paper to propose the implementation of the MADANI Adopted KRT, similar to the MADANI Adopted School and MADANI Adopted Village mechanisms.

Through this initiative, he said government-linked companies (GLCs) and government-linked investment companies (GLICs) could play a greater role in supporting community development under RT.

The Rukun Tetangga Scheme was first introduced following the enforcement of the Essential (Rukun Tetangga) Regulations 1975 under the 1969 Emergency Ordinance.

The Golden Jubilee celebration was held to recognise and appreciate RT’s achievements over its 50 years of establishment.

The event also witnessed the launch of a new Rukun Tetangga slogan and logo, “Empowering Communities, Strengthening Unity,” as part of efforts to reinforce RT’s identity and role in fostering national unity at the grassroots level.

-- BERNAMA