DBKL will have elected representatives in management positions

KUALA LUMPUR: Elected representatives in the city will be appointed to certain positions in Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) management, in a move to push the concept of democratisation of the local government.
"This is our first step towards the implementation of elections for local government. Once this is done, we will look into revamping the residents' representative councils where those there are persons who are able to help the elected representatives in the DBKL management," Federal Territories Minister Khalid Abdul Samad said during a press conference after a lengthy briefing session between his ministry and DBKL management today.
He explained that once the elected representatives are given positions in the city hall management, they can be more involved in any decision or policymaking with regards to any development in the city.
"This way, we could ensure there will be more checks and balances as well as more transparency in City Hall.
"When there are more checks and balances as well as transparency within DBKL, we could avoid any power abuse, embezzlement or corruption.
"When there is no power abuse, embezzlement or corruption, we will then be able to repair the negative image the public has of DBKL," Khalid said.
Khalid stressed that the Pakatan Harapan government is committed towards the idea of the 'third vote'.
The first-term minister told reporters that the new government has no issue on implementing the 'third vote' especially when the existing government managed to come into power thanks to its people.
"However, the implementation process will take time as we want to ensure the process will not be taken advantage of or create any misunderstanding among the rakyat," he added.
Khalid mentioned that if this concept is given the green light, he hoped to do it in stages, where half of its councillors would be elected, while the other half would be appointed.
Meanwhile, Khalid said he will not be issuing any instruction or order that will meddle with any decision made by DBKL.
"I want them to be a responsible and professional local council, hence, I will not issue any order that will meddle with their work.
"I have even informed them that they are free to voice out their objection or disagreement they might have if they are not in favour of any of my suggestions," he added.