DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the party believes coalition politics remains essential for it to play a meaningful role in shaping government policies and national development.
In an interview with Singapore’s CNA, Loke said DAP needed to remain in a position of influence within the government to implement changes, describing himself as a strong supporter of coalition politics.
He said while contesting independently might be easier, doing so would limit the party’s ability to participate in governance and nation-building efforts.
“When you are alone, you can only serve as the opposition. You cannot be part of the decision-making process or contribute directly to government administration,” he said.
Loke made the remarks when discussing DAP’s position in Putrajaya following the Johor state election, as well as ahead of the Negeri Sembilan polls on Aug 1 and the party’s special congress scheduled for Aug 16.
Addressing the impact of competing against Barisan Nasional (BN) while being part of the unity government, Loke acknowledged that political differences between coalition partners existed but said both sides must maintain professionalism.
The Transport Minister said government meetings and official duties continued as usual despite electoral competition, adding that efforts were being made to ensure the stability of the unity administration.
Loke also stressed that DAP would not withdraw from the unity government before the current term ends, noting that BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had similarly committed to supporting the government until the end of its mandate.
He said decisions on whether the coalition partners would contest the next general election together or separately would only be made after Parliament is dissolved.
Meanwhile, former Bangi MP Ong Kian Ming had previously suggested that DAP could face stronger pressure to leave the unity government if BN succeeds in forming the next Negeri Sembilan state administration.
In February, Loke announced that DAP delegates would decide during the party’s special congress whether its leaders should resign from government positions, including ministerial, deputy minister, executive councillor, local council and government-linked company appointments.
