DAP has made it clear that it will not be pushed or provoked into withdrawing from the unity government, with party leaders urging members to remain focused and disciplined amid rising political pressure. Secretary-General Anthony Loke emphasised that all decisions involving the party’s political direction would be determined internally, guided by the interests of both the party and its voters rather than by challenges from outside forces.
Speaking during the Melaka DAP Convention held in Melaka on 4 January 2026, Loke cautioned grassroots members against reacting emotionally to calls for the party to leave the unity government. He underscored that DAP’s approach has always been grounded in collective discussion and structured decision-making, not impulsive responses to political provocations.
Loke explained that any debate or differing views emerging at the state level would be channelled through proper party mechanisms. In Melaka’s case, discussions among delegates would be consolidated by the state leadership before being formally presented to the party’s Central Executive Committee for consideration. This process, he said, reflects DAP’s commitment to organisational discipline and democratic deliberation within the party.
The remarks followed a public challenge issued on 3 January 2026 by Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, who called on DAP to resign from the Melaka state administration, where it forms part of the Barisan Nasional-led government under the unity arrangement. The challenge sparked debate among political observers and party supporters, with some questioning whether DAP should reconsider its position within the coalition.
Shortly after the challenge, Melaka executive councillor for Entrepreneur Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs Allex Seah indicated his readiness to step down should the unity government in the state collapse. However, Loke reiterated that such individual statements should not be misconstrued as reflecting the party’s official stance.
He stressed that DAP has never shied away from political challenges, but maturity and restraint were equally important. According to him, resisting provocation does not signal weakness, but rather demonstrates confidence and clarity of purpose. The party, he said, would continue to evaluate political developments carefully and act based on long-term considerations rather than short-term pressure.
Loke further reminded party members that unity governments are built on negotiation, compromise, and mutual respect among coalition partners. Abrupt decisions driven by external rhetoric could undermine political stability and voter trust, he warned.
In closing, Loke reaffirmed that DAP’s direction would remain firmly in its own hands. He stressed that the party would decide its future based on reasoned judgment, internal consensus, and responsibility to the electorate, not on demands or provocations from political rivals.
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