PETALING JAYA: The Housing and Local Government Ministry informed the Dewan Rakyat that holding local council elections is not a top priority at this time.
According to Minister Nga Kor Ming, current initiatives that have the potential to improve and advance the welfare of the populace are the main priority.
In a written Parliamentary reply on Friday (March 7), he stated, “This year, we will also continue to prioritise basic facilities for local councils such as roads, clean public restrooms, and clear drains to ensure we give the best services to the people.”
Nga was answering a query from PN-Kota Baru’s Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan.
Takiyuddin had inquired about the government’s plans to hold local council elections in response to “pressure” from some sectors to hold the first round in Kuala Lumpur.
Prior to the 1960s confrontation periods between Indonesia and Malaysia, local council elections were held in Malaysia but were halted.
Since then, it has never been revived.
Nga also stated that the ministry would keep working with state governments to complete the Residential Tenancy Act draft.
He declared, “All quarters will be protected and taken into account as input and views from the engagement will be taken into account to improve the draft.”
Nga continued, saying that the Residential Tenancy Act would be impartial and that the parties concerned would have to agree on any terms before renting out any space.
He said, “It will also prepare a mechanism to resolve any conflicts when it comes to renting, as well as define the rights and obligations for premise owners and renters.”
This was in answer to a query from Syahredzan Johan (PH-Bangi), who wanted to know how the Residential Tenancy Act was progressing and if it would address concerns about potential renters being discriminated against based on their race.
