Mayor post a ‘hot seat’, says Ahmad Phesal
PUTRAJAYA, July 17 — Federal Territories and Urban Well-being Ministry secretary-general Datuk Ahmad Phesal Talib, who will be Kuala Lumpur Mayor effective tomorrow, is aware that the post is a ‘hot seat’ that is scrutinised by urban dwellers.
“True. You have to realise that. It is a ‘hot seat’ because the public are hoping for good service from their assessment payments, and they want a better life in the city,” he said after attending a monthly gathering of the ministry and the launch of a kindergarten, here, today.
He was commenting on his new posting, which is regarded as a ‘hot seat’, since issues and controversies are often linked to the Kuala Lumpur Mayor.
Ahmad Phesal (picture) said residents of other cities also want the best services in their city of residence and a more peaceful and calm environment.
“Those who carry out economic activities also need attention. For example, traders need opportunities and good locations. Investors and developers also need the best services. These are the reasons why the post of Kuala Lumpur Mayor is regarded as a hot seat,” he said.
Ahmad Phesal was appointed as the new Kuala Lumpur Mayor, for a two-year term, to replace Tan Sri Ahmad Fuad Ismail, whose contract expired on July 15.
In his previous post, Ahmad Phesal was directly involved in policies involving the Federal Territory including the Greater Kuala Lumpur/Klang Valley, River of Life and other development programmes in the nation’s capital.
His tasks will be assumed by the ministry’s deputy secretary general (Management) Datuk Adnan Md Ikshan, effective tomorrow.
Commenting on his appointment, Ahmad Phesal said he would endeavour to do his best, especially for basic services such as maintenance of roads and environment. — Bernama
