Anwar urges Melaka DAP to defer decision to exit state government, calls for dialogue
PORT DICKSON: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has appealed to Melaka DAP to reconsider its decision to withdraw from the Melaka state government, urging all parties to continue discussions in the interest of political stability, economic growth and the welfare of the people.
The Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman said differences of opinion within a governing coalition should be resolved through dialogue rather than immediate action, stressing that cooperation should remain focused on delivering development and public services.
Anwar revealed that he had discussed the matter with DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke Siew Fook and Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, expressing hope that all parties would agree to temporarily suspend any final decision while negotiations continue.
“I have spoken with Anthony Loke and the Chief Minister. My appeal is for everyone to continue discussions and postpone any immediate action so that we can remain focused on governing the state and addressing the people’s needs.
“My preference is for the current arrangement to continue for the time being. Differences of opinion are normal in any political coalition, but they should not derail our broader commitment to economic development and public welfare,” he told reporters after officiating the groundbreaking ceremony for the Midport Smart AI Container Port development project in Pasir Panjang, Port Dickson.
Anwar said disagreements over certain policies or legislative proposals should not overshadow the broader responsibility shared by coalition partners to safeguard political stability and ensure continuity in state administration.
He stressed that while differing views are inevitable within any coalition government, consensus can still be achieved through constructive engagement and mutual respect.
According to the Prime Minister, the government’s priority remains implementing policies that stimulate economic growth, attract investment and improve the well-being of the people, regardless of political differences among coalition partners.
Earlier on Monday, Melaka DAP announced that it was withdrawing from the Melaka state government with immediate effect.
The decision followed the Melaka State Legislative Assembly’s approval of the Melaka State Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026, which allows for the appointment of up to seven nominated non-elected state assemblymen.
Melaka DAP chairman Khoo Poay Tiong subsequently announced that all party representatives serving in the state administration would relinquish their respective positions with immediate effect.
The constitutional amendment, tabled by the state government, was passed after securing majority support in the State Legislative Assembly and is intended to strengthen legislative representation by enabling the appointment of individuals with specialised expertise from various professional fields.
However, the proposal has sparked differing views among members of the governing coalition, leading to Melaka DAP’s decision to withdraw from the state administration.
Anwar expressed hope that continued discussions between coalition leaders would pave the way for a mutually acceptable solution, allowing the state government to remain focused on delivering economic progress and public services without prolonged political uncertainty.
