Analysts split over DAP’s ‘stay for now’ strategy

Political pundits have differing opinions on the DAP's decision to remain in the Cabinet. Syaza Shukri of the International Islamic University Malaysia believes the party can rebuild trust by exerting pressure to realize promised reforms through its government position. In contrast, Oh Ei Sun of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs states that there is "almost nothing" the DAP can do from within the Cabinet to regain its core support.

A delegate from Kuala Lumpur, Sangeet Kaur Deo, echoed the delegates' sentiment that the party should "stay for now" despite growing dissatisfaction among supporters. Sangeet also believes the party must reassess its relationship with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and regain its voice. The special congress followed the DAP's poor performance in the Sabah election and Pakatan Harapan's heavy defeats in Johor and Negeri Sembilan.

Syaza asserts that the DAP can justify its position in the Cabinet if it pushes harder for reforms and holds its partners accountable for promised changes. She argues that focusing on ministerial performance alone is not enough, as the government is a unified entity. Oh Ei Sun, however, contends that government decisions viewed as regressive by non-Malay voters could further erode the DAP's support, as its ministers are bound by collective Cabinet responsibility.

He points to the "kuil haram" or "illegal temples" issue as an example, and suggests that DAP would be better off quitting the Cabinet and backing the government in the Dewan Rakyat instead.