KL is not Gotham City: Have we descended into a ‘kiasu’ society with KL-lites can’t even choose their mayor?

 

IT SEEMS that the proposal to explore mayoral elections in Kuala Lumpur is still at the feasibility study stage.

This was initiated following a Private Member’s Bill tabled by the previous Federal Territories Minister.

At least the previous FT minister Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa initiated a study unlike some ministers who conveniently forget their promises of reform by not taking initiatives towards the promised reforms voted by the people.

While concerns raised by some politicians, including references to fears of “triad rule” or loss of control, may stem from legitimate anxieties about governance and social stability, such arguments should not be used to justify resisting democratic progress.

Challenges in governance should be addressed through strong institutional safeguards, transparent legal frameworks and proactive regulatory measures – not by retreating from reform out of fear or by allowing racial sentiments and speculative narratives to dominate public discourse.

Malaysia should be moving forward by strengthening local democracy, accountability and public participation.

‘KL doesn’t need Batman’

Resorting to alarmist racial tantric and rhetoric risks promoting regressive politics rooted in fear rather than constructive nation-building.

A mature society must be willing to study reforms carefully, debate them rationally and implement protective mechanisms where necessary rather than dismissing positive change prematurely.

UMNO supreme council member Datuk Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi seems to be watching too many Batman movies and confusing Kuala Lumpur (KL) with Gotham City.

KL is not a fictional city plagued by lawlessness nor is Malaysia a society incapable of maintaining order and governance.

To suggest that electing a mayor would automatically invite chaos or criminal domination underestimates both our institutions and the maturity of Malaysian society.

KL is a modern, multi-cultural capital shaped by democratic values and strong legal frameworks – not a dystopian playground for imaginary villains.

Fear-driven arguments only distract from meaningful discussions about strengthening accountability, transparency and public participation in city governance which is by and large in the general good of all Malaysians. 

A lawyer by training, Datuk Seri Ti Lian Ker was a former MCA vice-president and former national unity deputy minister.

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

- Focus Malaysia.