THE Democratic Action Party (DAP) will not use government funds to finance any political programmes, its secretary-general Anthony Loke Siew Fook said on Sunday, underscoring the party’s commitment to keeping government and party affairs separate.
“Every cent of public funds belongs to the people and must be used solely for the purpose of national development — not for party activities,” Loke said in his address at the Perak DAP fundraising dinner held at the Ipoh Convention Centre.
He added, “Although DAP is now part of the government, when we organise dinner events, they are still well supported by those willing to buy tickets. That is a sign of their support for our party’s struggle.”
“We have always drawn a clear line between the party and the government. Government resources and funding are for the people. We do not use them for party matters. A political party should function based on grassroots strength and public support,” he said.
Also present at the event were DAP National Deputy Chair and Minister of Housing and Local Government Nga Kor Ming, and DAP Election Director cum Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh.
The event also saw the launch of a new Perak DAP fundraising campaign.
Loke, who also serves as Malaysia’s Minister of Transport, said the current Madani government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim remains committed to driving economic growth, improving citizens’ livelihoods and raising the nation’s standard of living.
“There are many development projects that still need to be implemented. Thank you for continuing to support the leadership of DAP and the Madani government. We will do our utmost for the people,” he said.
Meanwhile, Nga Kor Ming reiterated the party’s reformist stance, saying that even with DAP now part of the federal administration, it must continue to raise its own funds without relying on public coffers.
“Many ask why DAP still conducts fundraising even though we are in government. The answer is simple: the party is still a party, and the government is still the government,” he said.
“We must not abuse power, nor should we use government resources for party activities. This is the reform we practise under the principles of the Madani government.”
The Perak DAP chairman also expressed gratitude to the people of the state, noting that the evening’s dinner marked a new milestone in party fundraising.
He recalled that the previous state record for donations was set during a pre-13th General Election rally at Jalan Laxamana, Ipoh, when RM133,000 was collected using Milo tins.
“But tonight, we broke the record with a total collection of RM215,611. Congratulations and thank you to everyone who contributed,” he said. - August 25, 2025
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