Kuala Lampur, Jan. 30 -- In a few days' time, Kuala Lumpur residents will mark Federal Territory Day. Observed every Feb 1, it is a moment to reflect how far Malaysia's most important city has come. We take pride in its skyline, economic role, and position as the administrative centre of the country. Yet, for all its achievements, there remains one fundamental gap in how the city is governed: Kuala Lumpur residents still do not get a say on the person who runs their city.

Unlike many major cities around the world, the mayor of Kuala Lumpur is appointed under the current constitutional framework, rather than elected. For a city that prides itself on being world class, this is somewhat unusual. Residents pay taxes, comply with regulations,...