Sarikei: In response to the statement by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian calling for the Democratic Action Party (DAP) to be “eliminated” in the upcoming state election, I would like to emphasise that such a statement not only contradicts the spirit of democracy, but also reflects an unwillingness to accept checks and balances.
Malaysia is a democratic country, where leadership is determined through elections. Support for any political party is the absolute right of the people, and not something that any individual can decide.
In a mature democratic system, the principle of “checks and balances” is fundamental and cannot be set aside.
The existence of both government and opposition that scrutinise each other is crucial to ensuring transparent, integrity-driven governance centered on the interests of the people.
As part of the government, leaders such as Dr Sim should be open to criticism, rather than attempting to remove opposition voices.
DAP Sarawak has long played the role of a responsible opposition, voicing public concerns, criticising weak policies, and ensuring the government remains attentive to the needs of the people.
This role has had a positive impact in ensuring that government policies are continuously improved.
Ahead of the upcoming state election, the people’s focus should not be on “eliminating” the opposition, but on strengthening the role of checks and balances in the State Legislative Assembly.
An increase in DAP seats would strengthen oversight of the government, thereby ensuring more effective and accountable governance.
The statement reflects an arrogant attitude and an overly eager attempt by the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) to defend power.
When priority is given to power rather than serving the people, that is where problems arise in the administrative system.
Such a political attitude is not new; in fact, it has long existed since the Taib administration era, which was synonymous with a dominant leadership style and limited space for criticism.
The latest statement merely repeats an old pattern that the people increasingly reject.
In Sarawak, they call on the people to reject the DAP, but at the federal level, they do not reject cooperation with Pakatan Harapan, including the DAP.
This contradictory approach only undermines public confidence in their sincerity.
The real threat that should be given attention is the emergence of the extremist-oriented Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), which has the potential to disrupt racial and religious harmony and is now showing interest in contesting in Sarawak. However, the parties concerned have not addressed this issue.
In this regard, the people of Sarawak are urged to make rational and informed choices in the upcoming election to uphold the democratic system and ensure an effective opposition presence in the State Legislative Assembly, towards a more transparent, fair, and progressive Sarawak.
Roderick Wong Siew Lead,
DAP Socialist Youth (DAPSY) Sarawak Chief
20 April 2026
