Salleh also proposed that a new enactment on “Kerajaan Desa” be introduced and approved by the state legislative assembly, instead of relying merely on administrative arrangements or political appointments.

In a Facebook post, the former Sabah chief minister noted that Malaysia currently operates under three levels of government – federal, state, and local government – but many daily issues affecting the people remain unresolved “because decision-making is often too distant from village communities”.

He said Tamparuli’s decision to hold simultaneous village elections involving 94 villages was not just a record-breaking exercise, but reflected a growing awareness that governance at the grassroots level must become more structured, inclusive, and accountable.

“This development is closely connected to the Kerajaan Desa concept which I proposed earlier.

“Proper legislation would provide legal authority, accountability, and continuity to village governance. It would also ensure that village institutions remain functional and effective regardless of political changes,” he said.

Salleh said leaders elected directly by residents would carry a stronger mandate and be more accountable to the community rather than political interests alone.

“The Tamparuli experience shows that village-level elections are practical and achievable. More importantly, they can strengthen cooperation, participation, and democratic maturity at the grassroots (level).

“Strong villages create stronger districts, stronger states and, ultimately, a stronger Malaysia,” he said.