HOUSING and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming chipped into the debate raging surrounding mayoral elections in Malaysia, saying they are not unprecedented in the country.
He noted they were practised before being suspended during the Malaysia–Indonesia Confrontation.
The minister highlighted past recommendations by a Royal Commission for local government polls, which have remained postponed for five decades. The Royal Commission was led by the late Senator Janaky Athi Nahappan.
“A report was prepared recommending local government elections, but due to the Confrontation, it was postponed temporarily,” he said.
He also said that the “temporary” postponement has now lasted 50 years.
A feasibility study on local elections is now being conducted by the International Islamic University Malaysia, with findings to be submitted to the Cabinet for consideration.
Nga spoke to reporters after visiting a newly constructed house for a senior citizen at Kampung Baru Simpang Jalong today (Feb 7).
A government proposal to study whether Kuala Lumpur’s mayor should be elected has sparked debate over race, power and governance.
The study, announced by Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh, will be conducted by the International Islamic University Malaysia, with findings expected in March.
Critics, including opposition lawmaker Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, argue that electing a mayor could politicise City Hall and weaken institutional effectiveness.
Kuala Lumpur, administered as a federal territory, currently appoints its mayor every three years.
The proposal has revived long-standing concerns among Malay-based parties about urban electorates diluting Malay political influence in the capital. — Feb 7, 2026
