DBKL urged to publish annual budget consultation calendar

An association representing Kuala Lumpur residents has urged the city administration to set out a clear annual timetable for public consultations on municipal budget matters, arguing that greater transparency would strengthen community engagement in civic affairs.

The call comes as civil society groups seek to enhance citizen participation in local governance. The association emphasized that residents should have advance notice of when consultations will take place, clear information on how they can participate, and transparent reporting on how their input influences final decisions.

Currently, budget consultation processes lack a formal, publicly announced schedule, making it difficult for residents and community groups to plan their involvement or track outcomes. The association contends that a published calendar would remove barriers to participation and demonstrate the city administration's commitment to inclusive planning.

Official feedback channels and structured timelines would allow residents to better understand the municipal budgeting cycle and make informed contributions to spending priorities that affect their neighborhoods and daily lives. The proposal aligns with broader efforts across the region to strengthen accountability in local government operations.

Kuala Lumpur City Hall has not yet responded to the request for a formalized consultation framework.