As the current Datuk Bandar of Kuala Lumpur, Datuk Seri Mahadi Che Ngah, approaches the end of his term, appointing a new leader to lead the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has become a hot topic. Priority must be given in this process to selecting a competent and credible candidate who can serve the interests of Kuala Lumpur residents while also promoting good governance and transparency.
Three candidates have been suggested, including Datuk Ruzain Idris, Datuk Sulaiman Mohamed, and Datuk Ibrahim Yusoff. While each candidate has their strengths and experience, Datuk Azman Mahmood and Dato’ Wira Wan Ahmad Uzir are also potential runners-up who could be considered for the role.
Datuk Azman, the current Director General of Paddy and Rice Control at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, has a wealth of agricultural experience. He is also a former Director of the DBKL Enforcement Department, where he demonstrated his ability to lead and manage complex operations. His knowledge and understanding of the local governance structure, as well as the challenges that Kuala Lumpur faces, make him an excellent candidate for the position.
Dato’ Wira Wan Ahmad Uzir, Secretary General of the Ministry of Public Works, has also demonstrated experience in public administration and infrastructure development.
Regardless of who is chosen, the appointee must have a proven track record of integrity, honesty, and accountability. The appointment process must prioritize selecting candidates based on their reputation for upholding these values. The appointee must also have the necessary skills and experience to carry out the duties effectively.
The next Datuk Bandar will be in charge of Kuala Lumpur, a city with a diverse population and a unique set of challenges. Among the pressing issues the new Datuk Bandar must address are the city’s infrastructure, public transportation, housing, and environmental concerns.
Transparency and good governance are critical in the selection process. The appointment process must be transparent and prioritize selecting a candidate based on merit rather than political connections or personal interests.
The appointment process that follows Part II, Section 4(2) of the Federal Capital Act 1960 must prioritize selecting a candidate based on their reputation for upholding integrity, honesty, and accountability. The process must be transparent and merit-based. To avoid conflicts of interest or perceptions of bias, the Prime Minister must be unbiased and impartial in the selection process. To serve the best interests of Kuala Lumpur residents, the new Datuk Bandar of Kuala Lumpur must adhere to the principles of good governance and transparency.
By Mahathir Hj Mohd Rais, PN Information Chief (Federal Territories)
