DAP now appears to be at a critical political crossroads. Its participation in the MADANI government, once seen as an opportunity to implement long-promised institutional reforms, increasingly raises questions about whether remaining in power has strengthened or weakened the party. Rather than consolidating its influence, DAP is perceived by some observers as constrained, subdued, and unable to fully advance its reform agenda. DAP’s July 12 Reckoning: Resign from Government Posts or Exit the Coalition Entirely? The MADANI administration under Pakatan Harapan has also drawn criticism for appearing inconsistent — advocating reform rhetorically while progress on key institutional changes remains limited.
A key example lies in the reform of the Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia (SPRM). In AGENDA 8 of DAP’s 2025 Central Executive Committee (CEC) resolutions, the party reaffirmed its commitment to combating corruption and abuse of power, including institutional reforms aimed at restoring public confidence in the SPRM. Item 3.2 specifically emphasizes strengthening governance through legislative amendments, regulatory improvements, and best practices to eliminate opportunities for bribery and misuse of authority. cec-resolution-2025_bm-updated.pdf
However, when Bloomberg published an exposé on February 10 alleging that Azam Baki, the Chief Commissioner of the SPRM, held 17.7 million shares in Velocity Capital Partner Bhd, Malaysian anti-graft chief returns to stock market after outcry | The Star DAP did not appear to take an early or leading role in pressing the issue. The party only spoke out on February 25, after the controversy had already gained widespread public attention. DAP pushes for RCI over ‘corporate mafia’ allegations against MACC | The Star. Critics argue that this delayed response contrasts sharply with the party’s reform pledges and raises the question: Is DAP still acting as a reformist force, or has it become restrained by its position within government? Some suggest that had DAP been in the opposition, it might have responded more swiftly and assertively.
The broader political context further complicates matters. DAP’s setback in the 17th Sabah State Election is viewed by some as an early signal of voter dissatisfaction with the party’s role in government. DAP fails to win any seats in Sabah state election Operating alongside coalition partners such as United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), People's Justice Party (PKR), and National Trust Party (AMANAH), DAP is seen by critics as having compromised aspects of its foundational principles — particularly where they diverge from UMNO’s political approach.
Meanwhile, the perceived political dividends appear to favor key leaders. Anwar Ibrahim ultimately achieved his long-held ambition of becoming Prime Minister, while Ahmad Zahid Hamidi saw relief from his court cases. To some observers, this reinforces the narrative that DAP has borne political costs without securing commensurate reform gains.
Against this backdrop, DAP’s proposed Special Congress takes on heightened significance. The party has entrusted approximately 4,000 delegates with the decision of whether to remain in or withdraw from the MADANI administration. This move is seen as pivotal to DAP’s political survival — and potentially consequential for the stability of the government itself.
If DAP chooses to remain, it must confront mounting expectations to deliver tangible institutional reforms and reassert its reformist identity. If it withdraws, the party could argue that it is distancing itself from policies perceived as weak or inconsistent with its principles, including continued support for Azam Baki — an issue that has generated public discontent, especially following firm backing from the Prime Minister.
Many political observers interpret the Special Congress as more than an internal democratic exercise. It may represent a strategic recalibration: either a renewed mandate to push reform from within, or a calculated repositioning to reclaim political credibility outside the constraints of coalition governance.
Ultimately, the central question persists: Can DAP effectively pursue reform while sharing power in a complex coalition, or does its reformist strength depend on returning to the role of opposition? The answer may determine not only the party’s future trajectory, but also the broader direction of Malaysia’s reform agenda.
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