KUALA LUMPUR – DAP acknowledged that its wipeout in the Sabah election reflected a “serious crisis of confidence” in both the party and Pakatan Harapan (PH).
Party secretary-general Loke Siew Fook said DAP had received “a strong and unmistakable message” from voters, with campaign leaders encountering widespread dissatisfaction throughout the campaign.
“After thorough reflection, we will compile all feedback received and work closely with the prime minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) to accelerate the reform agenda over the next six months,” he said in a statement following an emergency central executive committee (CEC) meeting last night.
Loke also revealed that Sabah DAP had informed the CEC of its decision not to take up any positions in the state government, including appointed assembly seats.
“Sabah DAP leaders will continue to serve the people of Sabah actively and work to regain public confidence,” he said.
The party suffered a complete defeat in Saturday’s polls, losing all eight seats it contested. The six seats previously held by DAP such as Likas, Kapayan, Elopura, Luyang, Tanjong Papat, and Sri Tanjong were swept by Warisan.
On Saturday, Loke accepted full responsibility for the setback, adding that the party leadership would take heed of the lessons from DAP’s performance. – December 2, 2025