Experts argue state control blocks Kuala Lumpur local elections and revenue reforms

During a workshop on politics, Zaidel highlighted that state governments in Malaysia have narrow taxation powers, while local councils collect significant revenue through property assessments, licences and fees, making them essential for state finances. He argued that appointed mayors are not answerable to residents and advocated a pilot program to elect a mayor directly in Kuala Lumpur, noting the city currently lacks state-level representation.

Zaidel dismissed logistical concerns, suggesting voter eligibility could be verified via property or utility records. Helmi Abu Yahya, a senior lecturer at Universiti Malaya’s public policy institute, said the main barrier is the ruling parties’ lack of political will and the absence of independent oversight bodies. He also pointed to poor public turnout at planning hearings as evidence that officials view citizens as unprepared for local democracy. Historical context notes that local elections were suspended in the 1960s, with the 1976 Local Government Act allowing state appointments, and recent attempts by Pakatan Harapan-led states to revive polls have failed.