KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA: Housing and Local Government Ministry would review the suggestion to hold local council elections, said its minister Ong Ka Chuan.

He said Housing and Local Government Ministry was wiling to listen to public opinion and the ministry kept an open mind to listen to them.

"The ministry will submit the suggestion to cabinet and make the final decision after studying the real situation and combining public opinion," he said.

"There was no local council election in the past 40 years, therefore we can not simply make a decision in short time," he told reporters after the handing over ceremony at the ministry, here Monday (24 Mar).

When asked whether the policies in the state governed by opposition party would change, Ong said it must be affected and the level of influence might be different.

He said jurisdiction in other related ministries were involved, therefore, cabinet would make the final decision on restructuring and adjustment.

"No matter what are the changes in state government policies, more importantly we must ensure to give best service to the people and their interests are protected," he continued. (Sin Chew Daily)