The Johor state government has doubled the monthly allowances of all city councillors from RM900 to RM1,800 beginning Jan 1 next year.

Johor state exco in charge of local government, Tan Chen Choon (above) said the allowances for municipal councillors has been increased from RM800 to RM1,300, and district councillors from RM600 to RM1,000.

"The proposal to increase the allowances for local councillors was based on recognition of their role and contributions in improving the local councils' delivery system, particularly in the cities," he said.

According to government guidelines, a city council must comprise an area which includes the state administrative capital and with a minimum population of 500,000 people.

A city council must also be fiscally sustainable and be able to generate an annual income of RM100 million at the minimum.

"The role and responsibilities which must be carried out by every single local councillor in planning and developing an area have become more challenging," Tan further said.

"After taking into account increased cost of living factors, comparison of allowances for councillors in other local councils, as well as the financial strength of Johor's local authorities, the state government has decided to increase the monthly allowances of all councillors," he added.

In total, there are two city councils in Johor, six municipal councils and seven district councils.