KUALA LUMPUR — Penang DAP has been urged to begin early preparations for the possibility of the 16th general election (GE16) and state elections being held simultaneously next year.
Speaking at the Penang DAP annual convention, attended by 696 delegates, DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke highlighted the importance of readiness, noting that several states, including Johor, Melaka, and Sarawak, will see the end of their legislative terms, Bernama reported.
“If the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) decides to hold GE16 alongside the state elections, Parliament might need to be dissolved earlier than expected,” Loke explained.
“I am not saying it will happen, but it is my responsibility to remind the Penang leadership to be prepared for all possibilities, even though the state’s term still has some time left.”
Loke pointed out that, unlike the previous general election where Pakatan Harapan-led states held separate elections, the alignment of the federal and state governments now requires a more coordinated political approach.
He also emphasised that unity and party discipline were essential for maintaining public trust in DAP in Penang.
“We are in a strong position with a good record of administration, but complacency is our enemy. Voters despise disunity, and Penang DAP’s strength depends on our unity,” he stressed.
Loke further called on all party members to respect the outcome of last year’s party elections and support Penang DAP chairman Steven Sim, who succeeded Chow Kon Yeow as the state chairman after Chow chose not to contest.
In the 2023 Penang state election, the Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional alliance secured 29 out of 40 contested seats. – November 9, 2025