The overwhelming support from DAP delegates for the party to remain in the Unity Government must now be followed by stronger efforts to deliver reforms and policy changes, said DAP Johor vice-chairman Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali.
He said the 1,857 delegates, or 88.2 per cent of valid votes, who backed the motion should not be viewed as giving the DAP leadership a ‘blank cheque’ to remain in government without being held accountable for its performance.
Instead, Sheikh Umar said the mandate should be used to strengthen DAP’s role within the government, particularly in ensuring the party’s reform agenda is translated into concrete policies and action.
“During the debate, the party’s performance and its ability to realise reforms were among the key issues raised. Therefore, DAP’s position should now be understood as staying in government while doubling down on efforts to push for policy changes,” he said in a statement.
At the DAP 2026 National Congress at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC) on Sunday, delegates decided that the party would remain in the Federal Government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim until the end of the current parliamentary term.
Sheikh Umar said the decision also reaffirmed the mandate given by party members following calls after three state elections for DAP to reconsider its position in the Madani Government.
He said the outcome sent a clear message that members wanted DAP to continue fighting for its principles from within the government and make full use of its position to bring about meaningful changes.
The 88.2 per cent backing also demonstrated strong support despite speculation before the congress that DAP could withdraw from the Federal Government, he added.
According to Sheikh Umar, the decision further strengthens the stability of the Federal Government, with DAP holding 40 parliamentary seats. He said the result reinforced the Unity Government’s support base while reducing uncertainty over the possibility of political changes ahead of the next general election.
“1,857 is not merely a number representing the victory of a motion. It is a strong mandate from delegates for DAP to remain in the Federal Government, use the authority entrusted to it to implement reforms, and continue defending the party’s principles, the interests of the people and Malaysia,” he said.
