KUALA LUMPUR — DAP is grappling with an “identity challenge” as it transitions from a long-time opposition force to a governing partner, Bangi MP Syahredzan Johan said.
Speaking on the Trick Lama podcast, hosted by Big Boom Media Group editor-in-chief Terence Fernandez alongside group chief executive Datuk Zainul Arifin and Head of Podcasting Shazmin Shamsuddin, Syahredzan acknowledged the difficulties of moving from opposition to government.
“For the longest time, DAP has been an opposition party. All we knew how to do was whack, whack, whack. Now we are in government, we have to provide solutions,” he said.
“Some of us still feel that we need to constantly whack, but the real challenge is navigating how to make changes and explain why reforms cannot happen overnight.”
Syahredzan said the party’s perception as predominantly Chinese has complicated its efforts to project a multiracial, national identity.
“This has always been a discussion within the party — how do we become more inclusive and reflect the diversity of Malaysia?” he said.
He highlighted efforts to recruit more Malay leaders and members, noting initiatives began after DAP gained power in several states in 2008.
“We had a few experiments to bring in prominent Malay figures, and gradually, homegrown Malay talents rose through the ranks. Young Syefura Othman (Bentong MP) and Syerleena Abdul Rashid (Bukit Bendera) are examples of leaders who progressed from local councillors to members of parliament,” he said.
Syahredzan added that Selangor’s state leadership is more diverse than the national level, with Malay members holding key positions over the past two terms.
“There is no qualm within the grassroots to have more Malay leaders. It’s always an ongoing effort, and our members recognise the need for inclusivity,” he said.
Syahredzan who is also the State Political Education Director of DAP, stressed that the party’s values meritocracy over dynastic politics, countering criticism that the party is dominated by families of veteran leaders.
“Our members will elect leaders based on contribution, not because of their fathers. You can see it in the elections — some legacy candidates won, some didn’t,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Syahredzan expressed cautious optimism.
“Being in government forces us to rethink our approach. We must deliver reforms, communicate effectively, and ensure that all communities feel represented. That is our identity challenge — balancing our roots with our aspirations to be a truly national party.” – January 30, 2026