PJD Link reveals critical need for local elections, decentralised power

 

Boo Jia Cher

The controversy surrounding the proposed Petaling Jaya Dispersal Link (PJD Link) highway project highlights the urgent need for local elections and greater decentralisation of power.

Initially cancelled due to the developer’s failure to meet the conditions of its concession agreement, the project has resurfaced with potential revisions, reigniting concerns about its environmental impact and displacement of local residents.

A major issue with large-scale infrastructure projects such as the PJD Link is that decisions are often made by federal or state authorities, detached from the local communities who will feel the greatest impact.

Petaling Jaya stands out as an exception, where its middle-class residents have the time, resources and expertise to oppose the PJD Link.

However, not all communities share this advantage. The Klang Valley is filled with vast highways, many of which were pushed through without resistance due to local residents lacking the means to protest projects that would hurt them.

Despite promises of reducing congestion, these highways only harm local areas, and over time, most become congested as a result of induced demand: build it, and traffic will follow.

An elevated highway, like the PJD Link, is a direct assault on local communities: it cuts through neighbourhoods, pollutes the air and prioritises the convenience of people passing through while disregarding the health and well-being of those living there.

If local governments were empowered with elected councillors, the dynamics would change.

A local councillor, directly chosen by the community, would be responsible for that area.

This official, hopefully also a local resident, would serve the people of the locality directly, understanding their needs, challenges and aspirations, rather than accept decisions from a distant, disconnected perspective like the federal government.

Local leaders would be held accountable to the residents they serve and would have the power to ensure that infrastructure projects are in line with the needs and values of the community.

Empowering local governments would ensure that infrastructure projects prioritise the community’s needs over corporate interests.

Local authorities could pursue alternatives such as improving public transport, creating green spaces or adopting sustainable urban planning practices, rather than allowing profit-driven developments to bulldoze communities.

Decentralising power would promote greater accountability and transparency, with elected local officials who are answerable to their constituents.

This is in stark contrast to the federal and state governments, which can often be less responsive to the immediate concerns of local communities.

A more localised decision-making process would give people the power to influence decisions on projects that have an impact on their homes, environment and livelihoods.

By encouraging more local involvement, Malaysia could ensure that development projects serve the needs of the people, protect the environment and create a more sustainable, equitable future.

Democracy isn’t just about general elections every five years — it starts in the community.

Is it any surprise that people feel disillusioned with politics after federal and state elections?

During campaigns, politicians often make promises of change — a menteri besar might vow to cancel a highway project, only for it to be resurrected without explanation.

Regardless of which party is in power, many citizens feel powerless and see little of the change they were promised.

Street lamps remain broken, pavements are still absent and trees are recklessly cut down by contractors with minimal community input.

This is a result of a flawed political system. Local elections would give citizens the power to reclaim control and shape the future of their own communities.

The people of Petaling Jaya, and all communities across Malaysia, deserve a say in how their environment is shaped. Decentralising power and local elections are the ultimate step toward achieving that goal. - FMT

Boo Jia Cher is an FMT reader.

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.