Sabah wipeout: DAP vows to accelerate reform, regain public confidence

DAP central leadership has vowed to compile all the feedback it received from Sabah voters during the recent state election and work towards regaining public confidence.

The decision was made during an emergency central executive committee (CEC) meeting late last night to discuss the party's dismal performance in the polls, where it lost all eight of its contests, including six constituencies it previously won with large majorities in the 2020 election.

DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke said the results were a "strong and unmistakable message from the voters" and reflected a serious crisis of confidence faced by both DAP and Pakatan Harapan.

"Leaders and members involved in the campaign were made aware of the widespread public dissatisfaction throughout the campaign trail.

"After thorough reflection, we will compile all feedback received and work closely with the prime minister to accelerate the reform agenda over the next six months," he said in a statement.

Continue to serve people

Loke added that the CEC was also briefed by the party's Sabah chapter on the latter's decision not to accept any post within the state government following DAP’s wipeout.

"Sabah DAP leaders will continue to serve the people of Sabah actively and work to regain public confidence," he assured.

The Sabah election that concluded on Saturday saw a wave of rejection for peninsula-based parties.

Parties such as Harapan’s DAP and PKR, as well as Bersatu and PAS of Perikatan Nasional, which hold significant political territory in Peninsular Malaysia, were wiped out or lost in most of their contests.

Harapan only managed to secure one seat through PKR's Jamawi Ja'afar in Melalap, while PN, which fielded candidates in 42 seats, won only one through PAS' Aliakbar Gulasan in Karambunai.

Warisan: Voters' frustration over new Sabah cabinet understandable

LETTER | Catching wind again after DAP's loss in Sabah

COMMENT | 17th Sabah polls analysis: First look, Part 1

After defeat in Sabah, Harapan leaders warn of nationwide backlash

'Sabah first' wave sweeps in locals, drowns peninsula parties