Loke finds upside in DAP setbacks as party navigates new political realities

Speaking in an interview with The Straits Times, the transport minister said DAP remained optimistic despite a series of disappointing election results and growing dissatisfaction among parts of its traditional support base. — Picture by Yusof Isa

By Malay Mail

First Published: Sunday, 04 Oct 2026 9:06 AM MYT

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 4 — DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke has described the party’s recent electoral setbacks, including its defeat in Negeri Sembilan, as a “blessing in disguise”, saying the losses have exposed challenges faced by rival political blocs and could ultimately strengthen the party’s position. 

Speaking in an interview with The Straits Times, the transport minister said DAP remained optimistic despite a series of disappointing election results and growing dissatisfaction among parts of its traditional support base.

Loke pointed to developments in Negeri Sembilan, where he argued that the new state administration had yet to resolve issues it had pledged to address after coming to power. He said the situation demonstrated that political victories did not automatically translate into effective governance. 

His remarks come at a critical juncture for DAP, which has transitioned from being a long-time opposition party to a key component of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s federal administration. The party has faced pressure to balance its reform agenda with the realities of governing within a multi-party coalition. 

Loke also addressed criticism surrounding his decision to resign from the Cabinet following the decision to allow former prime minister Najib Razak to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest. While some have questioned the timing of his resignation, Loke maintained that he would leave his ministerial post once Najib fulfils the conditions attached to the arrangement, including the settlement of an outstanding RM50 million fine. 

He rejected claims that the move was merely political theatre, saying the timeline had been agreed upon with Anwar when he offered his resignation.

Despite recent challenges, Loke expressed confidence that DAP could rebuild support and remain influential within the ruling coalition, arguing that cooperation and compromise would be necessary as Malaysia moves towards its next general election.