Sabah DAP sticking with GRS-led state govt

Summary

• Sabah DAP remains part of the GRS-led state govt as Sabah Harapan components discuss political situation amid corruption scandal.

• However, Sabah DAP chief Phoong Jin Zhe says it will review its stance from time to time based on latest development, including people’s feedback, which it is gathering via party tour.

• Important to maintain Harapan unity, however, no compromise on corruption, he adds.

Sabah DAP chairperson Phoong Jin Zhe has reaffirmed the party’s position as part of the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS)-led Sabah government amid ongoing discussions among state Pakatan Harapan components to address political developments.

According to Daily Express, Phoong (above) revealed the matter was discussed during a Jan 12 meeting that involved leaders of Sabah DAP, PKR, Amanah and Upko.

“We need to be very careful when it comes to decisions as there will be implications. It is important to maintain Harapan’s unity before addressing other matters,” he reportedly said after officiating the Sabah DAP Youth and Sabah DAP Women 2025 Ordinary Convention.

The Luyang assemblyperson said while the state party chapter has autonomy in decision-making without requiring approval from DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, consideration must be given to Harapan’s stance.

This is particularly on PKR’s clear position to support the Sabah government until the end of its term and work with GRS.

“How can I say that I want to pull out and at the same time PKR stay in the government? We have a responsibility as elected representatives and people want us to be in the ruling party,” Phoong said in reference to the 2022 general election.

While the Sabah industrial and entrepreneur minister said the state DAP will remain part of the Sabah government, it may review its decision in the future based on the latest developments.

DAP hits the ground

To better understand public sentiment, Sabah DAP is conducting a tour to meet constituents and gather feedback.

“We have to meet the people, we have to collect the views and ideas from the people,” Phoong said.

“The party’s secretary-general has entrusted me with the mandate to make decisions regarding our position,” he added.

So far the tour has covered Lahad Datu, Keningau, Tenom and Gaya Street in Kota Kinabalu, and future destinations include Sandakan, Tawau and Papar before ending in Keningau.

Asked about Sabah DAP’s stand on corruption and working with those linked to alleged graft, Phoong reportedly said the party will continue to evaluate their future direction based on both investigation outcomes and public sentiment.

“We need to see before we make any decision. As a party that comes from the people, we will listen to the views of the people.

“We do not compromise on corruption. That is very clear,” he stressed, pointing to the importance of waiting for the MACC investigation results before making any decisions.

In November last year, Sabah’s political scene was rocked by a Malaysiakini exposé of a whistleblower claiming to have evidence of corruption involving eight assemblypersons, including Chief Minister Hajiji Noor.

Hajiji dismissed the incriminating videos as “edited” and denied the corruption claims but later suggested the recorded conversations could have been about political donations.

MACC is expected to complete its investigation into the matter by the end of the month.

Democratic, friendly talks

Phoong also reiterated his continued support for the new Sabah Harapan chairperson Ewon Benedick.

“The decision was made through a democratic process based on our constitution. We cannot reverse this,” he said.

Phoong added that the matter was also discussed with Sabah PKR chairperson Mustapha Sakmud.

“I have had discussions with Mustapha and I am grateful that we can discuss in a very open and friendly way.”

Stop defending corruption, students tell Native Court over 'sogit' on Fahmi Reza

Anti-graft rally organisers submit notice to cops

'We're not in RM500k videos': Bersatu leader highlights Sabah graft scandal

Sabah urged to bar 'rude' peninsula figures after Hamzah's remark