DAP votes overwhelmingly to remain in Malaysia’s unity government

PUTRAJAYA, 16 August 2026 — The Democratic Action Party (DAP) has voted overwhelmingly to remain in Malaysia’s unity government, ending weeks of uncertainty over whether its Cabinet ministers would continue serving under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

At the party’s national congress in Putrajaya on Sunday, 1,857 delegates, or 88.2 per cent, voted for DAP’s ministers to remain in the Cabinet. A total of 242 delegates voted for the ministers to leave, while seven ballots were spoilt.

The vote involved 2,106 secret ballots. Although 4,264 delegates were eligible to vote, 2,223 attended the congress.

Why the vote mattered

DAP had called for the vote following a series of disappointing results in recent state elections. The party lost all eight seats it contested in Sabah in November 2025, while its representation also declined in the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections.

The possibility of DAP leaving the Cabinet had raised concerns over the stability of Anwar’s unity government, given DAP’s significant representation in Parliament.

DAP calls for faster reforms

While delegates voted to remain in government, the debate also highlighted concerns over the pace of reforms.

DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke said the party expects promised reforms to be implemented, including measures involving the separation of the Attorney-General and Public Prosecutor’s roles, a two-term limit for the prime minister and the government’s anti-corruption agenda.

Loke thanked delegates who supported remaining in government and said the party would continue pushing for reforms from within the administration.

What happens next?

The decision means DAP’s five full ministers and seven deputy ministers will remain in the federal government.

The outcome provides greater political certainty for Anwar’s administration, while DAP now faces the challenge of rebuilding public confidence following its recent electoral setbacks.

The Mamak Corner will continue to follow developments in Malaysia’s political landscape.