Local council polls not on ministry's agenda, says Nga

HOLDING local council elections is not on the current agenda of the Housing and Local Development Ministry, which is focussing on development matters first.

Its Minister Nga Kor Ming said the time was not right for such elections to be held as the country was still recovering from the political turmoil of the last few years.

"I have been consistent in my stand from the day I assumed this post, that our focus will be on development for the benefit of communities.

"Our country is only just recovering from... uncertainty and there is a need to bring down the political temperature," he said on Thursday (Dec 28).

Asked if there were plans to hold local council elections in future, Nga said the matter needed time to consider.

"Everything will happen at the right time. Give me 10 years, maybe then (the local council elections will be held)," he added when met during a visit to Pasar Bazar Rakyat MBSJ in Seri Kembangan, Selangor.

Nga also announced a RM300,000 allocation for upgrading and maintenance works at the market.

Also present was Subang Jaya deputy mayor Zulkurnain Che Ali.

Separately, Nga said the flood situation in the east coast states was improving, adding that the Fire and Rescue Department had activated its emergency team to step up monitoring and ensure there are no casualties.

He also reminded parents in affected areas to keep an eye on their children to minimise contact with the floodwaters.

"The bacteria in the water may pose a health risk," he added.