TAWAU: Elder community members, often referred to as “otai,” continue to serve as a vital backbone in shaping grassroots development by offering practical ideas that reflect the needs of local residents.
Kukusan Assemblywoman Datuk Rina Jainal praised the group for their quiet yet impactful contributions, noting that their commitment has significantly supported community progress.
“These ‘otai’ are truly the backbone. They may not speak much, but their efforts are felt by everyone,” she said.
Rina explained that informal gatherings at local coffee shops have become an important platform for discussion, where community members exchange ideas and raise pressing issues affecting their daily lives.
“Although the setting is relaxed, the discussions are meaningful. They touch on various matters such as mosque facilities, residents’ welfare and village infrastructure,” she said.
Among the suggestions raised are improvements to mosque amenities, including the installation of solar lighting, as well as initiatives to enhance overall community welfare.
She added that infrastructure concerns, including damaged roads requiring concrete resurfacing and recurring flooding issues, are also frequently discussed during these sessions.
“This reflects how the otai think. Even outside formal meetings, their ideas are highly relevant and grounded in the realities on the ground,” she said.
Rina also noted that some residents have directly approached her to request additional street lighting in poorly lit areas to improve public safety.
In appreciation of their contributions, Rina presented H Duit Raya to the group during a recent meeting held in conjunction with the festive celebration.
