I would like to propose that Part II Section 10(1b) of the Local Government Act 1976 be amended in order to increase the total maximum number of councillors in a local council.
For the record, Section 10(1b) of the act states that the minimum number of councillors is eight (8) and the maximum is 24.
Therefore, I would like to propose to the unity government to increase the maximum number of councillors to 36, depending on population size and social fabric in some areas.
State governments will have a say on the maximum number of councillors.
The increment of councillors is vital, as we are facing population growth and development in many areas compared to the last 15 to 20 years.
Therefore, efficient service is important to cater to the increasing population.
For example, the population of Petaling district was 1.6 million in 2010. However, it went through a drastic increase, rising to 2.3 million in 2020.
With such an increase in population density, it is only fair to the people that zone representation by councillors gets increased based on today’s demands.
Another possible solution is also redelineation or increasing the number of parliamentary and state seats.
However, the last redelineation exercise was done back in 2018, and the next round will only be able to be executed in 2026.
As for adding new seats, it would require a two-third majority and extensive negotiation with various stakeholders such district office, local council and political parties, which would take a long and thorough process.
The increment of councillors is also important in the current political scenario, where parties that are part of the unity government coalition also would want to be part of the state government and would like representation at state and local government levels.
Post-GE15, we have witnessed the state governments of Perak, Pahang, Melaka and Johor modifying the composition of their respective state governments based on the current federal government structure.
Each state has their own unique configuration to accommodate the current political scenario.
With the six state elections coming up very soon, it is hoped that this proposal of increasing the number of councillors can be taken into consideration during ongoing seat negotiations.
This is so that we can come up with a win-win solution for all parties concerned that want to be part of the state government in the event a new mandate is given.
We cannot afford to go through another round of the “green wave” – one that is full of negative and hateful politics that could thwart nation-building.
It is important for all parties concerned to work together to ensure that this is a sustainable government in the long term.
We need to ensure cooperation from all quarters on all levels to provide the best services to the people. Through unity and cooperation, we will be able to build a nation together. – The Vibes, May 22, 2023
Muhammad Shakir Ameer is a Shah Alam City Council councillor and DAP member
