adminKUALA LUMPUR, 4 February 2026 – Federal Territories PKR chief Azman Abidin has called on all parties to allow the ongoing study on Kuala Lumpur mayoral elections to proceed, instead of dismissing the proposal outright.
Acknowledging the concerns raised by many, Azman emphasized that the matter should be evaluated based on factual data rather than assumptions or polemical narratives.
“The proposal is still under study, and no decision has been made. All parties should approach this issue from an academic and fact-based perspective, rather than generating speculation or sentiment that could confuse the public,” he said.
Azman, a political aide to the Prime Minister, highlighted that the study is being conducted by the International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM), a leading institution with extensive experience in public policy research.
He noted that the findings will eventually be presented to the Cabinet for further review, as stated by Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh.
He also underscored the need for scrutiny, taking into account the original purpose of the federal territories and the sensitivities of stakeholders involved.
Currently, the Mayor of Kuala Lumpur is appointed with the consent of the King under Section 4(2) of the Federal Capital Act 1960. Azman pointed out that holding mayoral elections would require amendments to this legal provision, a process he described as complex and requiring in-depth discussions.
“This is not an issue to be rushed or approached emotionally. It requires thorough screening and careful consideration,” he said.
