NEW mayor Datuk Kamarulzaman Mat Salleh has clocked in for work on Monday (April 17) as the 14th head of Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).
He arrived at Menara DBKL 1 at Jalan Raja Laut accompanied by Federal Territories Department director-general Datuk Seri Rosida Jaafar.
Also present were previous mayor Datuk Seri Mahadi Che Ngah and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s political secretary Azman Abidin.
During a private event attended by DBKL top officials, Kamarulzaman also received a replica keris from Mahadi as a symbol of the transfer of mayoral duties.
In her speech, Rosida said the mayor must ensure his vision was in line with those for Putrajaya and Labuan.
She said this was important to ensure synergy across all three Federal Territories and optimum delegation of resources and manpower.
“Although the mayor has some degree of autonomy in managing the capital, he is still responsible for realising the department’s aspirations,” she added.
Rosida also thanked Mahadi for his service as a mayor from September 2020 to March 31 this year.
She hoped Kamarulzaman would continue implementing the initiatives introduced under Mahadi’s tenure.
A farewell ceremony was later held at the ground floor of DBKL headquarters for Mahadi.
Mahadi, addressing well-wishers and DBKL staff, said serving as the mayor was the highlight of his career.
“Three quarters of my life were dedicated towards serving the capital and overseeing various aspects of its development.
“It was an honour to have been part of the family in charge of steering the direction and evolution of Kuala Lumpur,” he said.
He also made note of the various efforts undertaken to address flash floods in the capital, as well the plans made for a low-carbon Kuala Lumpur.
In a text message to StarMetro, Mahadi thanked the media house for its cooperation and wished it to continue its work in building Malaysia.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
