THERE is growing speculation that some young leaders within the Democratic Action Party (DAP) are dissatisfied with National Chairman Lim Guan Eng’s leadership approach.
They believe he needs to improve his interpersonal skills.
While he was once known for his vocal stance, the landscape of Malaysian politics has evolved.
As a key component of Pakatan Harapan, DAP requires a more diplomatic leadership style, both within the party and in collaboration with its coalition partners.
It is said this faction finds it challenging to voice their opinions to Lim Guan Eng, as they feel that most decisions are made unilaterally, without a culture of discussion and compromise. However, his future leadership will ultimately be decided by the DAP congress tomorrow where 4,250 delegates will cast their votes.
This year, 70 candidates are contesting for positions in the Central Executive Committee (CEC).
My perspective on the leadership challenges within DAP, particularly the speculation surrounding Lim Guan Eng’s future includes:
Internal Discontent: Some young DAP leaders feel that Lim Guan Eng’s leadership style lacks inclusivity and diplomacy, leading to dissatisfaction within the party.
- Emerging Faction: A strong group, led by Anthony Loke, Nga Kor Ming, Steven Sim, and Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, is reportedly working towards leadership change.
- Support for Lim Guan Eng: Some believe that he remains essential to leading DAP, especially with the upcoming General Election, citing his boldness and ability to champion party interests.
- Chow Kon Yeow’s Rising Influence: His governance in Penang is viewed favorably, positioning him as a strong contender for party leadership.
- Divided Support: While Chinese votes are split, Lim Guan Eng continues to enjoy strong backing from Indian voters.
- DAP’s Internal Struggles: The ongoing power struggle could impact party unity and its performance in the next election.
Many insiders believe that Lim Guan Eng should be given another term to lead DAP, arguing that this is a crucial period for the party to maintain unity. They see him as an outspoken, bold, and strong leader qualities they believe are essential as Malaysia heads toward what could be its toughest General Election yet, likely to take place after June next year, alongside state elections in Sabah, Sarawak, Johor, and Malacca.
Additionally, it is expected that civil servants will receive another salary increase and a generous Raya bonus before the General Election. Given this political landscape, supporters argue that DAP needs a leader who will fiercely defend the party’s interests rather than one who compromises on fundamental issues or tolerates inefficiencies.
Many believe that only Lim Guan Eng has the ability to speak out strongly and secure the party’s existing seat allocations or even expand them in the upcoming election. He is widely respected for his courage in addressing critical issues.
His supporters particularly praised his stance in Parliament, where he questioned the RM12 billion allocation for Bumiputeras in the national budget.
While acknowledging the importance of the allocation, he argued that at least 10 percent, amounting to RM1.2 billion should be directed to non-Bumiputeras.
Lim Guan Eng also played a pivotal role in defeating Barisan Nasional in Penang, despite the coalition’s formidable machinery and resources. Many credit his leadership for ensuring the survival of the Penang state government against strong opposition efforts to topple it, a success that has endured to this day.
Political observers acknowledge that while differences within the party exist, the unity of DAP, the future of its supporters, and its performance in the upcoming General Election remain of utmost importance.
However, with intense lobbying behind the scenes, DAP is likely to enter the election as a divided party. This internal division could weaken its grassroots support, particularly since DAP is regarded as the strongest party within Pakatan Harapan.
It is up to party leaders, grassroots members, Chinese associations, the Chinese business community, and well-wishers to formulate a peace strategy.
Allowing Lim Guan Eng to serve as Chairman for one final term, while other leaders contest independently, could provide a dignified transition within DAP.
The suggestion of a “peace formula,” granting Lim Guan Eng one last term before stepping aside, presents an interesting compromise. Ultimately, how DAP resolves this leadership contest will significantly shape its trajectory in the next General Election. – March 15, 2025
Datuk P. Gunaseelan is president of the Malaysian Public Service Association and a prolific figure among the Indian community.