World · Malaysia Bureau
Over 500 inactive community councils in Malaysia, Selangor leads count
Malaysia's Unity Ministry has flagged concerns over more than 500 dormant Rukun Tetangga (RT) community councils, with Selangor accounting for the highest number. The ministry says it needs to establish clear guidelines to reactivate these neighbourhood organisations.
LSN Malaysia ·
Unity Minister Aaron Ago Dagang said the high number of inactive community councils represents a significant challenge that requires urgent intervention. The Rukun Tetangga programme, which relies on voluntary neighbourhood leaders to foster community cohesion and address local issues, has seen participation rates decline in several states. Selangor faces the most pressing situation, with the largest concentration of dormant councils requiring reactivation efforts. Ago Dagang emphasised that the Unity Ministry must develop comprehensive guidelines to systematically bring these councils back into operation. The reactivation framework would aim to re-engage community leaders and residents, helping restore the councils' role in strengthening neighbourhood bonds and tackling grassroots concerns. Officials indicated that the initiative forms part of broader efforts to revitalise community-based governance structures across the country and ensure better coordination between residents and local authorities.