FT Pas objects proposed local govt election

KUALA LUMPUR - Federal Territories Pas strongly objects to Kuala Lumpur DAP chief Tan Kok Wai's proposal to call for local authority elections (PBT) in the capital to be held in an effort to uphold democracy.

Federal Territories Pas Commissioner Azhar Yahya said Tan’s proposal was considered very dangerous which could lead to racial monopoly due to the unbalanced distribution of the population by race, especially in the Federal Territories.

“My concern lies in the potential for a racial monopoly, particularly by the Chinese community, if the PBT election takes place, resulting in the control of PBT seats in Kuala Lumpur.

"The evidence points to DAP dominating parliamentary seats in areas such as Kepong, Seputeh, Cheras, Bukit Bintang, and Segambut additionally, mixed constituencies like Wangsa Maju, Setiawangsa, Lembah Pantai and Bandar Tun Razak, have a majority population from races other than Malays," he said in a statement on Monday.

Previously, during the Kuala Lumpur DAP Convention, Tan proposed the reinstation of PBT elections by the government.

He believed that conducting local government elections would result in a sustainable capital, fostering efficient, transparent, and citizen-centric governance.

Azhar clarified that Federal Territories Pas were not talking about racism but raised questions about ensuring Malays secure a majority of seats and votes to preserve their privileged rights.

He also expressed concern regarding the potential expenses associated with the continuation of the proposed local government election.

Azhar said that having a minister assisted by the Mayor specifically responsible for the Federal Territories was sufficient for leading administration and management in Kuala Lumpur.

"The Residents Representative Council (MPP) has also been established since 2011 with the aim of helping the efficiency of continuous service delivery and implementing social and human capital programs.

"This MPP function is one of the linking mechanisms between the government and the local community. The function of PBT members has already been carried out successfully by the MPP since its establishment," he said.

Azhar also highlighted the active role Members of Parliament in the Federal Territory could play in conveying the voice of the community.

"All 13 members of Parliament adequately represent the people and look after their respective constituencies.

“In fact, they serve as advisors to MPPs in their respective parliaments and act as liaisons between the people's representatives and the public.

“With these considerations, the Pas Federal Territories believes that the government should focus on long-term planning and reject Tan's proposal, which is perceived as outdated and irrelevant to the current situation," he said.