There are really many justifications to have elected local council members. We need councillors who are interested to serve and also possess the ability to serve, instead of appointed councillors who look upon the job as a political favour.

In my several dealings with various councils, the working environment was shameful. Staff were seen playing computer games, the person-in-charge was always not around or having a meeting. The list of frustrations go on and on.

In running my own business, none of these things I observed in the running of the various local councils would be allowed to happen. My business would surely go bankrupt.

And recently, the trend seems to be for the councillors to reward themselves with 'incentive' trips and luxurious living quarters. Just look at the situation in Subang, Shah Alam and Selayang.

I believe this is a credible issue for malaysiakini to perhaps conduct a nationwide poll for opinions.