By Yasmin Ramlan
SHAH ALAM, Feb 25 — State executive councillor for local government and tourism Dato’ Ng Suee Lim has instructed all local authorities to update their websites with plans and projects related to facility improvements and infrastructure upgrades.
This will allow taxpayers to see how their taxes are used and understand the benefits, especially after this year’s tax assessment rate increase.
“(This should include) five initiatives that can be implemented as soon as possible in 2025 and bring immediate benefits to the public.
“Additionally, five more medium and long-term projects are to be planned so the public can see the actual plans of the local authorities which will increase revenue and benefits for taxpayers.
“We can ensure that all collected funds are used in the most effective way,” he said during the State Legislative Assembly session today.
Last year, Selangor announced that assessment rates will be hiked by 25 per cent starting on January 1, 2025, for all local authorities in the state.
However, Ng previously said that property owners will receive discounts of up to 75 per cent under the new rate, compared to the 100 per cent rise that was supposed to be enforced.
Meanwhile, in response to a question from Pandamaran state assemblyman Tony Leong Tuck Chee about the local authorities’ performance and residents’ satisfaction, he said the state government plans to commission research firm Merdeka Centre to conduct surveys across all local authorities.
The initiative is set to take place either this year or next, depending on financial approval.
“Selangor has 12 local authorities, and the public expects increased efficient hands-on services.
“We have instructed Merdeka Centre to conduct surveys across local authorities to assess public satisfaction and performance. This will be done either this year or next, depending on financial approval,” Ng said.
