KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA February 4, 2026 – The Parti Keadilan Rakyat (KEADILAN) Wilayah Persekutuan has issued a media statement calling for calm and academic evaluation regarding the ongoing feasibility study on the potential election of the Datuk Bandar (Mayor) of Kuala Lumpur.
In the statement released on February 4, 2026, signed by Datuk Azman bin Hj Abidin, the Negeri Wilayah Persekutuan KEADILAN Coordinator and a member of the Majlis Pimpinan Negeri, the party urged all parties not to rush to conclusions or build speculative narratives about the study being conducted by Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia (UIAM).
The statement emphasized that UIAM, as a globally reputable higher education institution with extensive experience in public policy research, is carrying out the study based on rigorous academic standards, facts, and scholarly methods—free from speculation or emotional bias.
KEADILAN Wilayah Persekutuan noted that no official decision has been made on implementing mayoral elections in Kuala Lumpur or elsewhere. Any significant decision would require thorough discussion among the leadership of the unity government coalition (Kerajaan Perpaduan).
The party highlighted the need for careful consideration, taking into account the spirit of the Wilayah Persekutuan, sensitivities related to the position of Datuk Bandar, and legal provisions such as Subsection 4(2) of the Federal Capital Act 1960, which also involves the authority of Yang di-Pertuan Agong (YDPA).
The process is described as complex and requiring detailed scrutiny, deliberation, and in-depth discussion. The party stressed that there is no need to rush or become emotional in addressing the matter.
The statement also referenced recent comments by Hannah Yeoh, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), who confirmed that the study’s findings will be presented to the MADANI Cabinet for further consideration before any decision is contemplated.
KEADILAN called for comprehensive stakeholder involvement—including resident associations, non-governmental organizations, local leaders, and community representatives across Kuala Lumpur—in providing input from various perspectives.
The party appealed to all parties to allow space for the ongoing study and deliberations, encouraging rational approaches grounded in evidence, data, and facts rather than forming narratives based on assumptions or mere polemics.
This statement comes amid public discussions and some backlash following Minister Hannah Yeoh’s earlier clarifications that the study—initiated since December last year—is an academic effort by UIAM, a respected institution, and not driven by any single political party.
KEADILAN Wilayah Persekutuan reiterated its commitment to evidence-based governance and inclusive processes in matters affecting the federal capital’s administration.
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