In a recent gathering held in Ipoh, Democratic Action Party (DAP) secretary-general Anthony Loke Siew Fook underscored the importance of drawing a clear line between government resources and party activities. He emphasised that despite the party’s role in the current administration, public funds are meant solely for national development and should never be diverted into political programmes.
The dinner event, which drew strong attendance from party supporters, highlighted DAP’s continued practice of financing its activities through contributions from members rather than government allocations. Guests purchased tickets to participate, a gesture Loke described as reflecting ongoing loyalty and commitment to the party’s cause. This approach, he added, demonstrates that DAP’s strength comes not from state coffers but from the willingness of its base to invest in its vision.
The evening also marked the beginning of a fundraising campaign for Perak DAP, signalling the party’s efforts to strengthen its financial independence while preparing for future political challenges. According to reports, the initiative is aimed at ensuring that operations and outreach can be sustained through grassroots backing rather than reliance on official channels.
Loke, who also serves as Malaysia’s Transport Minister, used the occasion to remind attendees of the broader mission of the unity government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The coalition, he noted, has prioritised economic recovery, measures to ease household burdens, and strategies to uplift the overall quality of life for Malaysians. Maintaining a strict separation between political and governmental responsibilities, he explained, is not only a matter of accountability but also a reflection of integrity in governance.
By outlining this principle, Loke sought to counter perceptions that political parties in power inevitably blend their resources with those of the state. He argued that such practices weaken public trust and undermine the very purpose of governance, which is to serve the people. For DAP, sustaining political activities through membership contributions is not merely a practical necessity but a deliberate choice that reinforces the party’s credibility.
The message from Ipoh thus carried both symbolic and practical weight: DAP intends to uphold transparency in its operations while reaffirming loyalty to the wider public interest. With fundraising efforts underway and continued support from its grassroots base, the party signalled its commitment to remain financially self-reliant while contributing to the broader goals of the unity government.
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