SABAHANS facing their state polls on November 29, should use Penang as an example in how close federal-state relationships can spark greater development.
DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke Siew Fook said it is understandable to drum up state sentiments when facing a localised election but at the same time, it is beneficial to have a strong partner in the federal government.
CIting Penang as an example, Loke said that the island state had for long dreamt of development projects but required federal support.
Now with Penang and the federal side sharing the same Pakatan Harapan government under the unity government, Loke said that rapid development is returning to the state.
He had earlier summarised the list of projects that Penang had received, which in turn can boost the economy and create more jobs through its spillovers.
Penang is scheduled to undergo development for a Mutiara Light Rail Transit (LRT) line, the expansion of the international airport in Bayan Lepas, new highways, the upgrading of the Juru - Sungai Dua toll stretch and now the upgrading of the Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) station in Butterworth.
"Our messaging is here. It is good to have state sentiments and to be parochial as it brings a sense of pride but at the same time, it is also wise to have reliable partners."
Collaborators who can help Sabahans realise their dream of a better developed state with ample job opportunities such as Penang, said Loke.
He said this after opening the annual Penang DAP delegates conference at the Holiday Inn and Suites Hotel off Bukit Mertajam.
He also spoke about DAP readying the party with the Gen Z (present youth batch), as for any political party to be progressive, it needs to be infused with young blood.
"A party without youthful support, is one without a future," said the transport minister.
Loke also slammed detractors, who are part of the government, yet behave like they are the Opposition, by embarking on baseless claims.
"If it is constructive, the government of the day can accept as means to improve but if it is centred on slander, it is not progressive for us."
Loke also revealed that DAP will disclose one more candidate for an interior state seat after it formally unveiled candidates for seven state seats in Sabah.
"We will make an announcement soon," said Loke. - November 9, 2025.
