Should Chong Chieng Jen decide Sarawak DAP as fully local opposition?

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Sarawak DAP Chairman Urged to Choose Between Federal Government and State Opposition Roles

Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) senior vice president Datuk Sri Wong Soon Koh has called on Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) chairman Chong Chieng Jen to make a decisive choice regarding the state party's political alignment. Wong suggests that if the Sarawak DAP is to function as a wholly local-based opposition, it must sever ties with its national body, leading to the resignation of all its elected representatives from federal portfolios. He further proposed that Chong could emulate DAP national secretary-general Anthony Loke's approach of seeking political unity in Sarawak by potentially aligning with the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS).
Call for Clarity on Sarawak DAP's Political Stance

Wong Soon Koh articulated that the Sarawak DAP currently occupies a dual position, participating in the federal government while simultaneously positioning itself as the opposition within Sarawak. This perceived dichotomy, he argued, could create confusion among the public regarding the party's fundamental principles and ultimate objectives. He highlighted that while DAP at the national level supports Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the unity government, its state chapter operates in opposition to the ruling GPS coalition in Sarawak. Wong believes this "have-it-all" strategy might not be sustainable in the long term and urged Chong to focus on the future direction of the Sarawak DAP rather than questioning the motives of former Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) members who have joined PDP.
Emulation of National Leadership and Political Unity

In his statement, Wong referenced a meeting between Anthony Loke and Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, where Loke reportedly offered an apology for any disparaging remarks made against Sarawak by national DAP leaders and invited GPS to join the unity government. Wong commended Loke's actions as those of a "true gentleman" willing to make sacrifices for the nation, suggesting that state DAP leaders should adopt a similar spirit. He advocated for Chong to prioritize national interests and harmony, set aside personal agendas, and unite with GPS to combat extremism and preserve Sarawak's political unity, citing the recent "Allah socks" incident as an example of the need for solidarity on sensitive issues.
Implications of Remaining in Opposition

Wong reiterated his stance that no political party can effectively serve in both government and opposition capacities simultaneously, asserting that the Sarawak DAP must make a definitive choice. He outlined that if Chong is committed to maintaining the Sarawak DAP's opposition role within the state, the party would need to disassociate from its peninsular counterparts. Consequently, all elected representatives holding federal positions would be compelled to resign from their posts. Currently, these elected representatives include Lanang MP Alice Lau, who serves as Dewan Rakyat deputy speaker; Sarikei MP Roderick Wong, a senator; Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii, a political secretary to the Human Resources Minister; and Chong's special assistant Michael Kong, who chairs the Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board. Wong expressed hope that Chong would align with GPS to foster political stability and racial harmony, which he believes are essential for Sarawak's continued progress and development.

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Should Chong Chieng Jen decide Sarawak DAP as fully local opposition?

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