The candidates said local elections offer voters the opportunity to have a say in choosing representatives who genuinely reflect their interests as they manage and provide essential services to them.

In a joint statement, they said communities often found themselves unrepresented in local councils because of political appointees by state governments dominating the councillors’ posts.

“Local councils play a crucial role, encompassing a significant number of matters that directly impact neighbourhoods.

“Therefore, it is only right that communities have the right to select individuals who truly represent their interests, instead of using these positions as rewards or political bargaining chips,” they said.

The candidates said the federal government is capable of implementing local council elections since it has a two-thirds majority in the Dewan Rakyat.

Muda is fielding candidates in Kuala Kubu Bharu, Taman Templer, Bukit Antarabangsa, Pandan Indah, Dusun Tua, Seri Serdang, Subang Jaya, Seri Setia, Bukit Gasing, Bandar Utama, Kota Anggerik, Batu Tiga, Sentosa and Sungai Kandis in the Selangor state election.

In February, local government development minister Nga Kor Ming said local council elections were not a priority as there were other areas his ministry was focusing on.

Nga said his ministry needed to focus on areas such as road safety and cleaner public toilets and drains.

In 2021, then housing and local government minister Reezal Merican Naina Merican said holding local elections would cost at least RM302 million.