PH confident DAP will remain in MADANI Government ahead of key national conference

PH Secretary-General Saifuddin Nasution Ismail expressed confidence that the Democratic Action Party (DAP) will remain part of the MADANI Government at their upcoming National Conference on Sunday. Saifuddin believes DAP will prioritize national interests and political stability, continuing the well-functioning continuity of the current administration.

During a press conference following the handover ceremony of the MMEA AW189 helicopter at Subang Maritime Air Station, Saifuddin noted that DAP delegates will decide the party's position within the government at the assembly. A motion on the matter will be presented to nearly 4,000 delegates for a final decision. The conference was originally set for July 12 but was postponed to focus on the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections.

DAP is not obligated to explain its internal decision-making process to PH, according to Saifuddin. The MMEA is expected to receive three more AW189 helicopters in December, increasing its aerial fleet to nine aircraft. This acquisition, valued at RM529 million, is the first of four units and brings the current operational air fleet to six aircraft, comprising five AW139 helicopters and the new AW189 helicopters.

The addition of these helicopters is crucial for Maritim Malaysia's maritime surveillance, search and rescue, and special operations, as the country's vast waters face various threats. The AW189 offers superior capabilities, including longer flight endurance, speed, and payload capacity, compared to existing assets. Personnel capacity building is also receiving close attention, with crews undergoing training in Italy and further training in Malaysia before operating the new aircraft.

The government expects to receive a mothership in the first quarter of next year, further enhancing MMEA's capabilities. The procurement of the four AW189 helicopters was approved under the Fourth Rolling Plan of the Eleventh Malaysia Plan, with the contract running from January 19, 2024, to January 18, 2029.