A feasibility study examining potential amendments to the Federal Capital Act 1960 to allow local council elections and the direct election of Kuala Lumpur’s mayor is expected to be finalised by the end of this month.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh said the study is being conducted by International Islamic University Malaysia (UIAM), with researchers currently completing the final stages of their assessment.
Interim Findings Already Submitted
According to Yeoh, the research team has already presented an interim report to the government while continuing consultations with various stakeholders.
“The study will be ready after March. Otherwise, they will meet with us,” she said during a press conference.
She explained that while preliminary findings have been shared with government officials, the research process is still ongoing as the team continues to gather views from relevant parties.
Cabinet Briefing Pending Final Report
Yeoh added that a formal presentation to the Cabinet has yet to be scheduled, as the government intends to review the complete findings before taking the matter forward.
The feasibility study was commissioned in December after a Private Member’s Bill was tabled in the Dewan Rakyat proposing amendments to enable the election of local representatives and the city’s mayor.
The proposal has sparked broader discussions on democratic governance and urban administration in the federal capital.
Public Universities Capable of Conducting Study
Earlier, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil emphasised that public universities possess the expertise required to carry out such research.
He called on all parties not to underestimate the capabilities of institutions like UIAM in conducting comprehensive policy studies on issues involving governance and administrative reform.
The findings of the study are expected to play a key role in shaping future discussions on whether Kuala Lumpur should adopt a system allowing residents to directly elect their city leadership.
