Malaysia’s Democratic Action Party (DAP), a key member of the ruling Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition, has recently issued a series of public demands, challenging the government it is part of. The party’s actions come after a significant loss in recent state elections and appear aimed at reassuring its core support base.
DAP’s Demands and Government Response
A central demand from DAP is the recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), awarded by independent Chinese-medium schools. The UEC is academically equivalent to A levels and is accepted by many international and private universities, but is not currently recognized by the Malaysian government for entry into public universities or the civil service.
This push has faced immediate resistance from the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), a partner in the current unity government led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The Federation of Malaysian Islamic Students (GAMIS) also submitted a memorandum to DAP headquarters, describing the call for UEC recognition as “a step backwards” in Malaysia’s education reform.
Recent Criticisms and Potential Reassessment
Beyond the UEC issue, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, who is also DAP chairman, has publicly criticised the police regarding a dress-code incident in Melaka. Former deputy law minister Ramkarpal Singh has renewed calls for the abolishment of the SOSMA security law.
DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke indicated in an interview that the party would reassess its role in the government if Prime Minister Anwar fails to deliver meaningful reforms within the next six months. However, Loke affirmed that DAP would not withdraw support for the administration and risk political instability, stating the party would not do so until the next general election.
Impact of Sabah State Polls and Internal Concerns
DAP holds 40 parliamentary seats in the 222-member lower house, making it the largest party contributing to Anwar’s unity government. However, the party is reportedly facing a “crisis of confidence” following its recent performance in the Sabah state polls on Nov 29, where it lost all eight seats contested after previously securing six seats in the 2020 election.
Some analysts suggest DAP’s recent actions are an attempt to reassure its Chinese base after this electoral setback. Former DAP Member of Parliament Ong Kian Ming stated that the party risks losing support from its Chinese supporters in Peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak, with voters feeling “betrayed” by the party’s compromises within the coalition.
While some observers believe DAP may be overreacting to the Sabah results, arguing that localized losses do not necessarily reflect a national shift in sentiment, the timing of the party’s demands has raised concerns among experts.
Discover more from Archyworldys
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
