Although Lim Guan Eng no longer helms the Democratic Action Party (DAP), his political influence continues to cast a long shadow over the party’s direction and decisions. Much of that enduring power stems not only from his own political legacy as Penang’s former chief minister but also from the indelible mark left by his father, Tan Sri Lim Kit Siang - the man who spent decades transforming DAP from a voice of opposition to a party in government.
This legacy of persistence and reform has ensured that Lim Guan Eng remains a central figure in Malaysian politics, even amid his ongoing graft trial linked to the Penang undersea tunnel project. The court’s recent decision to permanently return his passport highlights that his relevance is far from over.
Sessions Court Judge Azura Alwi granted the permanent return of Lim’s passport, which had been held since 2020, following his appointment by Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim as the honorary chairman of the Asean-China Association for the Promotion of Industrial Cooperation and Development (ACAPICD). The appointment, officially signed on August 25, 2025 by Anwar’s chief private secretary Datuk Shahrol Anuwar Sarman, reflects a strategic move to leverage Lim’s experience in regional economic diplomacy - particularly as Malaysia leads as chair of ASEAN in 2025.
In his affidavit, Lim argued that his role required him to travel frequently to strengthen ASEAN-China trade ties, a key agenda under Malaysia’s leadership. His lawyer, Mohd Haijan Omar, stressed that Lim has been compliant throughout his trial, having appeared in court consistently for five years and posing no flight risk. The prosecution objected to a permanent return, insisting that temporary releases would suffice. Nonetheless, Judge Azura allowed it, citing “a change in circumstances.”
This decision, however, has sparked mixed reactions. To supporters, it signals renewed trust in Lim’s international credibility and his ability to serve Malaysia’s interests beyond partisan boundaries. To critics, it raises questions about political privilege and judicial consistency, particularly since Lim’s corruption trial remains unresolved.
Regardless of where one stands, one fact is undeniable - Lim Guan Eng’s political pulse still beats strong. Even without holding the party’s stewardship, his role as DAP adviser, along with the Prime Minister’s recognition, shows that the Lims’ legacy continues to shape DAP’s standing within Malaysia’s ever-evolving political landscape.
By: Kpost
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