DAP lawmaker Lim Lip Eng has suggested it is time for Kuala Lumpur to be named a state.

The Kepong MP opined that the city should have its own legislative assembly where the people can elect their representatives.

He said either the Agong or Selangor sultan could become its head of state.

Prior to becoming a Federal Territory, Kuala Lumpur was part of Selangor.

“There is a need for us to re-evaluate the existence of the states in the Federal Territories, which fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government, particularly the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur.

“These provinces are combined to foster a sense of belonging between the peninsula and the island of Borneo. However, the management and administration of these territories are not centred on the residents.

“Apart from the voting of MPs, the people in this constituency are unable to elect their local representatives because the appointment of the Federal Territories minister is done exclusively by the federal government. At the same time, the appointments of the mayor and excos in Kuala Lumpur are also being done similarly. This situation clearly shows that Kuala Lumpur is directly controlled by the central government.

“It is appropriate for the status of the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur to be re-evaluated if the government really wants to celebrate the concept of fairness and democracy. It is time for the city to change its status to a state,” said Lim.

Kepong is one of the parliamentary seats under Kuala Lumpur. 

Lim said by having a state legislative assembly, a menteri besar can be appointed and his leadership can reflect the wishes and desires of the people of Kuala Lumpur.

“Kuala Lumpur is one of the states that contribute the most to the national economy. The population of Kuala Lumpur is also higher than some states. It is time its (the population’s) democratic power is respected. A state will only prosper if its people are given the power to vote in full,” he added. – June 25, 2022.