Roles and Issues of Village Development and Security Committee (VDSC) Institution for Rural Development in Malaysia

Abstract

In Malaysia, village institution such as VDSC acts as a liaison group between the villagers and the government. From survey of literatures on village institution, it is evident that little research has been done, which focused on the subject of village institution, especially in the Asian region. Many papers have been written about other countries such as China, Africa, India, Pakistan, and Iran. Thus, this study is conducted to explore the role of this institution in village development, and the issues and challenges that affect their effectiveness. Thrusting upon the qualitative paradigm, semi structured interviews were conducted, which generated two main themes, namely their role in village administration, which covers ensuring welfare, safety and unity of the villages, political survival of the ruling party, and monitoring village development such as monitoring and evaluating local development projects. This study also identify issues and challenges affecting these institutions such as lack of financial resources, lack of training and development among the leaders, and high commitment expected from these leaders, despite they are just doing voluntary jobs. In reviving the role of VDSC institution for village development in Malaysia, the government should establish a special allocation for these institutions; second, provide better training and development for the leaders; and third, create a permanent post for their chairpersons. These findings could therefore be used as a basis towards improving their capacities to ensure they can deliver a positive impact on the development of rural communities in the future.