Dr Zaliha (ninth from left) presenting appointment letters to MPPWP KL Council members for the 2025-2028 term. — CHAN TAK KONG/The Star
THE Federal Territories Residents’ Representative Council (MPPWP) has been given expanded responsibilities to give input on policymaking, integrity monitoring and social mobilisation, says Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) said the council must act as a strategic partner of the government, with its members viewing themselves as community-level policymakers rather than just programme implementers.
“MPPWP can no longer function only as a conduit for complaints,” she told representatives during the appointment ceremony for the 2025-2028 term in Kuala Lumpur.
“In the past, MPPWP functioned only as a committee at the community level.
“Now, it must play the role of a semi-formal institution that fills the absence of local councillors in the Federal Territories.
“In the future, MPPWP can also serve as a governance partner of the Government, playing a role in planning urban community policies.”
Dr Zaliha said MPPWP’s function had been expanded in three key areas.
“As community advisers, MPPWP can provide policy input and proposals to Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), Putrajaya Corporation and Labuan Corporation.
“As monitors of policy integrity, you must also ensure that government programmes and initiatives reach their target groups.
“As social mobilisers, you can play a role in strengthening human capital, unity and community networks.”
Dr Zaliha also announced that allowances of RM1,000 and RM750 monthly would be given to deputy zone chairmen and zone secretaries respectively.
Activity grants have also been raised from RM50,000 to RM60,000 per year at the zone level, while the sub-zone level allocation has increased from RM20,000 to RM25,000.
She said recognition came with serious responsibilities and that integrity must be at the core of every decision.
“Every ringgit must be properly recorded. Most importantly, every programme must benefit the rakyat,” she said.
A total of 1,284 members were appointed for the 2025-2028 term across Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan.
Dr Zaliha urged the new appointees to lead by example and embody the principles of Malaysia Madani.
“I want MPPWP to be the gold standard of community leadership.
“With government support and our shared commitment, we can make the Federal Territories a model of Madani society,” she said.
She added that the appointments had been made based on merit, with inclusivity across all component parties of the unity government.
