Kuching: The Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen has reaffirmed the party’s strict stance against using government positions or resources to fund political activities, emphasising that party and public finances must remain separate.
“Even though we are part of the federal government, it does not mean we can use government money for party purposes. Government money is money for the people,” he said in a speech during the opening ceremony of the newly renovated DAP Sarawak headquarters here last Sunday.
Chong highlighted that DAP Sarawak is considering lodging a police report against the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) over its alleged receipt of RM1 million in funds linked to 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) and has called on its youth wing, DAP Socialist Youth (DAPSY) Sarawak, to take the lead in filing the report.
He said the move is intended to send a strong message that government funds must never be used to finance political parties.
“Now, there is already a court decision that the money from 1MDB is money stolen from the people and from the government. Whoever receives stolen money is as guilty as the thief who stole it — that is the law,” he said.
Chong emphasised that the renovation of DAP’s Sarawak headquarters was funded entirely through public donations.
“Despite costs exceeding the initial budget, we choose to rely on voluntary contributions rather than public funds.
“There is no compulsion. There is no condition that anyone who comes to seek our help must donate. Not a single DAP staff or member tells the public that they must pay for our service,” he added.
Reflecting on DAP’s 48-year journey in Sarawak, Chong acknowledged that some leaders had left the party due to political pressure or temptation.
“That in itself is a testimony that the journey of DAP Sarawak is full of challenges. However, the party has remained standing because it has stayed true to its principles.
“I call on all party members to stay united ahead of the anticipated Sarawak election. We must stick to our conviction — to the party, to the people, and to the state,” he said.
