Based on existing systems already in place when the council operated under the Straits Settlements, it was partially opened for public voting in 1948, before being replaced by the Legislative Assembly in 1953.

Letters patent granted a Colonial Constitution on 4 February, which allocated much power to the governor.

Mostly wealthy Asian business and professional leaders, they were not necessarily a fair representation of the locals, however.

Initiatives like these were unsuccessful, however, as there was little support from wider society were widely apathetic to local politics, with the Chinese population paying more attention towards growing their commercial and professional interests, and the events occurring back in China, fueled largely by the rise in Chinese nationalism sentiments.

The governor continued to exercise significant power, included the right to veto bills by the council.