Loke recalls how he declined nomination for honorary titles

After DAP through Pakatan Rakyat came to power in several states during the 2008 general election, some serving party representatives were conferred honorary titles, which contradicted party policy.

According to DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, he himself had been nominated for such a title but politely declined it.

Loke revealed that in 2018, Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Aminuddin Harun informed him that Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir intended to bestow an honorary title upon him.

However, Loke politely turned down the offer before it was formally confirmed.

“It depends on how you handle it. In my case, I declined even before the formal nomination. In 2018, the menteri besar contacted me to inform me of the possibility of a nomination.

“I expressed my gratitude to Tuanku for the intended honour, but I explained our party’s policy,” he recounted.

Loke, who is transport minister and Seremban MP, was speaking during an interview for a Malaysiakini Chinese-language podcast last week, which was aired on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts yesterday.

Dilemma

Loke noted that while DAP’s policy bars serving representatives from accepting honorary titles, this often presents a dilemma.

He acknowledged that rejecting a royal conferment might be perceived negatively by the Malay community.

“For example, if the offer becomes public and you decline, it may trigger criticism from some quarters, especially the Malay community, accusing you of disrespect.”

“Some might question, ‘Are you so arrogant that you reject an honour from the royalty?’ This is why it can create sensitive issues and we need a more thoughtful approach.”

Loke cited the case of Selangor executive councillor Ng Suee Lim, who was named for an honorary title by Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah in 2023.

“In such situations, outright rejection may cause misunderstandings or tensions with the royal institution.”

Since DAP first came to power in the 2008 election, several serving representatives, including Teng Chang Khim, Ng, Chan Foong Hin, Phoong Jin Zhe, and more recently, Tan Lee Fatt, have been conferred awards and honorary titles.

Let’s debate

To address the matter comprehensively, Loke reiterated that the party would discuss the issue at the DAP National Congress in March next year, exploring potential exceptions under special circumstances.

He mentioned that it may be brought up as a formal resolution or during his secretary-general’s policy speech.

“Should we revise the policy slightly? Or introduce some flexibility? Party members will have the opportunity to debate it and share their views.

“After the congress, the new central committee can then make a concrete decision.”

Loke expressed his personal stance against accepting any titles while still in office.

“If, after I retire, the royal institution chooses to recognise my contributions to the country and society, I would find that more meaningful,” he said.

Related reports:

• Loke refutes claims of party polls interference, says no issue with Guan Eng

• Loke jokes about being branded 'Number Plate Minister'

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