KUALA LUMPUR, 12 July 2026 (The Capital Post) – Kuala Lumpur Residents’ Associations and Stakeholders Dialogue (KLRA+SD) has called on the government to place city residents at the centre of governance reforms, arguing that meaningful changes cannot be achieved without public participation, transparency and stronger institutional accountability.
In a media statement issued on Tuesday, KLRA+SD expressed concern over the government’s decision to adopt the findings of the International Islamic University Malaysia’s (IIUM) feasibility study on proposed amendments to the Federal Capital Act 1960 (Act 190), which recommended strengthening the existing governance structure instead of introducing a councillor system for Kuala Lumpur.
The group said the study consulted only Members of Parliament and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) management while excluding residents and residents’ associations, despite the findings being used to shape public policy.
KLRA+SD also questioned the Cabinet’s decision to endorse the study’s recommendations before making the report available for public scrutiny, describing transparency as essential to building public trust.
It said governance reforms should not rely solely on administrative improvements but must include institutional changes that strengthen accountability, integrity and independent checks and balances.
The organisation reiterated its support for amendments to Act 190 through a Private Member’s Bill submitted by seven Kuala Lumpur Members of Parliament, which seeks to introduce a council system as an initial step towards democratising the capital city’s governance.
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According to KLRA+SD, a council system has long existed in local governments across Malaysia and would provide stronger oversight of DBKL while complementing administrative improvements.
The group also stressed that any future councillors should be appointed through a transparent, merit-based process prescribed by law rather than through political discretion, with appointments based on professional qualifications, governance experience, integrity and community leadership.
While welcoming governance improvements introduced by the Federal Territories Minister, KLRA+SD maintained that sustainable reform should be anchored in strong institutions rather than depending on individual officeholders.
It added that stronger governance would be consistent with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those relating to sustainable cities, accountable institutions and inclusive partnerships.
KLRA+SD said it remains committed to working with the government, Members of Parliament and other stakeholders to improve Kuala Lumpur’s governance and reiterated its long-term advocacy for residents’ democratic right to a second vote. The organisation also proposed that the issue be put to a referendum during the next General Election if the government believes its position reflects public sentiment. – The Capital Post.
