Transparency, accountability, representation must shape policy
The government cannot claim to strengthen the governance of Kuala Lumpur while excluding residents from the conversation.
KLRA+SD is deeply concerned by the government’s decision to adopt the findings of Interna-tional Islamic University Malaysia’s (IIUM) feasibility study on proposed amendments to Federal Capital Act 1960 (Act 190), which rejects a councillor system for Kuala Lumpur in favour of strengthening the existing governance structure.
The decision relies on a study that consulted only MPs and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) management while excluding residents and residents’ associations.
Equally troubling, the Cabinet endorsed the study’s recommendations before releasing the report for public scrutiny.
Administrative improvements cannot replace institutional reforms that strengthen accountability, integrity and independent checks and balances.
According to a government statement, the researchers consulted Kuala Lumpur MPs and DBKL management as the “principal stakeholders”.
Yet the people who live with the consequences of DBKL’s decisions every day were absent from the process.
This sends the wrong message.
Residents are not merely recipients of public services; they are legitimate stakeholders in determining how their city should be governed.
Governance reform that begins without residents risks reproducing the very accountability deficit it seeks to address.
The government has announced the study’s conclusions while withholding the report itself.
A study commissioned with public funds to shape public policy should be open to public scrutiny.
Residents deserve to examine the evidence, methodology and recommendations that have informed the Cabinet’s decision.
Transparency cannot be selective.
It is the foundation of public trust and should reflect the spirit of the forthcoming Freedom of Information Bill.
KLRA+SD continues to support proposed amendments to Act 190, as set out in the Private Member’s Bill submitted by the seven Kuala Lumpur MPs to introduce a council system as the first step towards democratising the capital city.
A council system is neither radical nor experimental.
It has existed throughout Malaysia for decades as a mechanism of checks and balances.
The bipartisan Public Accounts Committee (PAC) likewise recommended introducing a council system to strengthen oversight and accountability within DBKL.
Administrative improvements and institutional reform are not mutually exclusive.
Better procedures are important, but they cannot replace independent institutional oversight.
When the government establishes a council system for Kuala Lumpur, councillors must be appointed through a transparent, merit-based process prescribed by law rather than political discretion.
Appointments should be based on relevant qualifications, professional expertise, governance experience, integrity and community leadership.
Public confidence must rest in the institution – not in the individual making the appointments.
KLRA+SD welcomes governance improvements introduced by the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories).
However, meaningful reform should never depend on the commitment of any individual minister.
Good governance requires strong institutions that guarantee accountability, transparency and integrity regardless of changes in political leadership.
This is also consistent with principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 11 on sustainable cities, SDG 16 on accountable institutions and SDG 17 on inclusive partnerships.
KLRA+SD remains committed to working constructively with the government, MPs and all stakeholders to strengthen Kuala Lumpur’s governance.
Our long-term aspiration remains unchanged: To see Kuala Lumpur governed through institutions that are transparent, accountable and representative of the people they serve.
KLRA+SD will advocate for the rightful second vote as a democratic right.
If the government believes its position reflects the will of the people, it should have no hesitation in putting the question to them through a referendum at the next general election.
KLRA+SD
Kuala Lumpur
