MCA Youth Wilayah Persekutuan has echoed the growing call by Kuala Lumpur residents for the introduction of local mayoral elections, saying these voices reflect a broader sentiment on the ground.
Its chairman Mike Chong Yew Chuan said for too long Kuala Lumpur residents have had no direct say in who governs their city despite paying assessment taxes and being directly affected by the decisions made by the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).
“An elected mayor would carry democratic legitimacy and be directly accountable to the people. If the performance is unsatisfactory, residents can exercise their right to vote for change at the next election—that is the essence of accountability,” he noted.
“Pakatan Harapan needs to be reminded of its long-standing promise to restore local council elections as part of its reform agenda. This was pledged in their Buku Harapan manifesto for 2018 but remains unfulfilled.
“If the Madani Government is sincere about institutional reform, transparency and decentralisation, then Kuala Lumpur should lead the way.”
Chong, who is also the MCA national youth deputy chairman further acknowledged concerns raised about political influence, campaign financing and autonomy of the mayor.
“These are valid issues. However, they should not be used as excuses to deny residents their democratic rights. Instead, safeguards must be introduced including clear campaign spending limits, mandatory asset declaration by candidates, residency requirements, and fixed term limits,” he opined.
“Only Kuala Lumpur residents should be eligible to vote to ensure accountability remains with those who live under DBKL’s jurisdiction.
“Equally important is ensuring that an elected mayor has sufficient administrative autonomy to make decisions without undue interference, while remaining subject to checks and balances.”
Chong went on to stress that strong governance structures, transparent budgeting and regular public reporting must accompany any reform.
“Local democracy is not a radical idea. It was practised in Malaysia before being suspended in the 1960s. Major cities worldwide elect their mayors. Kuala Lumpur should not lag behind,” he elaborated.
“The debate should not be about fear, but about trust in KL residents. If we truly believe in democratic principles, then we must empower residents to shape the future of their own city.
“It is time for Pakatan Harapan to honour its promise and take concrete steps towards restoring local council elections, beginning with Kuala Lumpur.”
Local council elections, particularly in the capital, have long been a contentious issue.
At present, Kuala Lumpur and DBKL are under federal control, with the city administered by a government-appointed mayor.
Critics have argued that this structure concentrates power in the hands of the mayor, with limited checks and balances compared to other local councils.
However, right-wing Malay-based political parties have long opposed the local council election, claiming it would erode Malay power in urban areas where non-Malays are the majority. ‒ Feb 25, 2026
Main image: VOCKET
