Demi selamatkan Malaysia, DAP mesti undur daripada Kabinet

The headline above might shock many, especially as I identify myself as a staunch supporter of the DAP – in fact, I believe it is the best political party in Malaysia. Writing this article is hard for me, but politics have its own logic, considerations, and rules that are sometimes hard to predict. Regardless, the DAP must step down.

By releasing positions in the government, the DAP can regain public trust, including those who have begun to feel hostile towards the party. Many DAP supporters believe the party is too closely aligned with the prime minister, feeling he prioritizes Malay interests at the expense of others. I do not agree with that viewpoint. However, the concerns of such supporters cannot be ignored, as they will also determine the outcome of the upcoming election.

If the DAP steps down from the Cabinet, this step may convince the skeptical group to return to voting. Second, the DAP's withdrawal can put pressure on the prime minister to implement promised reforms. This renewal is crucial for restoring public confidence, including that of longtime supporters on the fence, in Pakatan Harapan (PH).

This might seem harsh, but sometimes difficult decisions are necessary for better outcomes. Third, when the DAP is no longer in the government, PAS will lose a target they have often used – like many portray Islam to destroy Malays and Islam. Without the DAP in the government, Anwar can appoint more Malay MPs to the Cabinet. A Cabinet mostly composed of Malays can also weaken calls for PAS to form a government with such a composition.

This step may also end the concept of "Rumah Bangsa" and the Malay-Islam narrative often played by PAS and its allies to remain relevant. It is time to challenge the political tactics of PAS and Umno. If the DAP leaves the government, PAS and Umno may have to follow PH's lead. Therefore, how can this step save Malaysia? By stepping down from the Cabinet, the DAP has a chance to regain support from the fence-sitters and those increasingly pessimistic about politics, in addition to discouraging opponents from using their main funding to attack the DAP and PH.

It may be an unusual strategy, but it has the potential to help PH win a majority to form the next government without relying on others. After all, the ultimate goal may be considered significant enough to justify the means employed to achieve it. This article is the author's opinion and does not necessarily reflect FMT.