The results of the recent DAP central executive committee (CEC) election at the DAP national congress showed that race-based politics remain ripe in the party.

NONE Penang Umno information chief Hilmi Yahaya ( left ) said although Malaysia had celebrated 55 years of independence, race-based politics remains fresh in the party.

"It is clear that race-based politics is evident in DAP. If there is openness in the party, positions in the party, especially the CEC, will be filled by all races," he told reporters in George Town today after handing out a RM3,333.33 cheque to Persatuan Keluarga Jabatan Kemajuan Masyarakat in Penang for the Tabung Pendidikan Gaza, initiated by Universiti Sains Malaysia.

All eight Malay DAP leaders, including veteran Ahmad Ton, were not elected into the CEC, although he had served the party for 36 years.

Hilmi said DAP should follow the example set by BN which has a coalition of component parties, and works hard to ensure the welfare of all races.

He added that DAP must also not accuse BN of corruption since money politics has started to rear its face in the party.

Speaking of the Tabung Pendidikan Gaza, Hilmi said the money would help rebuild Gaza and provide education to its people, just like how Malaysia has been able to excel in the field of education.

- Bernama