KOTA KINABALU: The duties and roles of Rela personnel are much more than meets the eye, says Sabah Rela director Mohammad Pauzi Jhumat.

       He said Rela officers and personnel often complement the tasks of other enforcement authorities during disasters, rescue missions and other emergencies.

       “Mostly, we do our work quietly behind the scenes,” he said when commenting on a photograph of a Rela member carrying an elderly woman during a vaccination programme in rural Long Pasia, which was shared online.

       The picture was shared by former urban wellbeing, housing and local government minister Datuk Abdul Rahman Dahlan’s Instagram account.

       It was accompanied by a caption: "Sometimes, we only look at their weaknesses, their shortcomings. But in reality, many of them dispense their duty with honour and dignity."

       “Yes, actually such acts are routine for any official on duty but sometimes, the presence of our Rela volunteers on the ground is received with complaints and discomfort.

       "But I am not blaming the public or anyone for feeling that way because there are also many who support and appreciate Rela members," Pauzi said.

       He said there were actually many heartwarming stories that Rela volunteers could share with the public.

       “What they do, though some may think is small, is actually worth mentioning and something to be proud of,” Pauzi added.