How will DAP decide whether to work with Sarawak Opposition parties?

Question

Accepted Answer

DAP to Discuss Collaboration with Sarawak Opposition Parties for GE15

The Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) will convene a state committee meeting on Tuesday in Sibu to deliberate on the potential for collaboration with other opposition parties in Sarawak for the upcoming 15th general election (GE15). This consideration stems from the outcomes of the recent state election, which indicated a necessity for opposition forces to unite against the ruling Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS).
Rationale for Opposition Unity

The decision to explore an alliance is directly informed by the results of the last state election. Chong Chieng Jen, chairman of Sarawak DAP, highlighted that while regional sentiment was a significant factor, a sole focus on regional politics proved insufficient for opposition parties. He pointed to the performance of Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB), which contested 70 seats but secured only four, and DAP's own outcome of two seats out of 26 contested, with many other local opposition candidates losing their deposits.
Balancing Regionalism and National Platform

Chong articulated that in planning for GE15, it is crucial to acknowledge the strong regional sentiment in Sarawak while also recognising the importance of a national party with a national platform. He asserted that for national politics, particularly in a general election context, the backing of an established national entity is indispensable. Sarawak DAP positions itself as a local party with autonomy over state matters, yet benefits from the broader reach and support of its national affiliation.
Precedent for Inter-Party Dialogue

The discussion about forming a united opposition front is not isolated. Previously, on March 27, PSB president Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh announced his party's intention to engage with opposition parties in both Sarawak and Sabah to establish a "Borneo Alliance." This proposed alliance aims to create a formidable force in federal politics, leveraging a combined strategy and shared objectives for the two Borneo states.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

How will DAP decide whether to work with Sarawak Opposition parties?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends