THE upcoming July 12 convention by DAP is being viewed as a strategic political exercise rather than a substantive shift in governance, according to Ti Lian Ker.
The convention, initially framed as a special congress following DAP’s Sabah electoral setback, will see more than 4,000 delegates voting on whether the party should relinquish its executive positions while continuing to support Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Parliament.
Commenting on the development, Ti, a former MCA vice-president, characterised the move as a form of political posturing.
“This is not political work — this is pure political play,” he said, describing the convention as a carefully orchestrated exercise aimed at shaping public perception rather than delivering structural change.
Convention Optics Under Scrutiny
Ti suggested that the gathering would likely mirror the atmosphere of major party assemblies in Malaysia, including those associated with the Umno, marked by dramatic speeches, emotionally charged rhetoric, and coordinated displays of unity.
According to him, such elements serve a clear purpose — to rebuild grassroots sentiment, consolidate internal support, and reinforce the party’s political relevance ahead of upcoming state elections in Johor and Melaka, as well as the next general election (GE16).
“These conventions are designed to rebuild emotions and project strength. The objective is to consolidate support and prepare for the next electoral cycle,” he said.
Ti further argued that the situation reflects a broader reality within Malaysian politics, where parties operate primarily to secure and maintain power.
He pointed to the enduring dominance of Umno, PAS and DAP within their respective constituencies, describing them as the “big brothers” of the political landscape.
“Whether it is Umno, PAS, or DAP, the first instinct is survival — to gain power, retain power, and expand influence,” he said.
In this context, he noted that manifestos, ideological positioning, and political messaging often function as tools towards that objective.
Shifting Alliances and Political Realities
Drawing on past political developments, Ti highlighted how alliances and positions have evolved, often contradicting earlier stances.
“Parties that once condemned alliances later formed them. Leaders who preached principles later compromised them. Rivals became partners when power required cooperation,” he said.
He added that pre-election positions, including slogans such as “Asalkan Bukan Umno” and “No Anwar, No DAP”, have historically shifted following electoral outcomes.
Questions Over Governance Record
Ti also questioned DAP’s track record in government, arguing that the party has struggled to translate its position into tangible reforms.
He cited recurring issues such as the recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), which he said continues to surface without a clear and consistent policy direction.
“Where were the strong narratives of ministers aggressively pushing reforms? Even basic changes struggled to materialise,” he said.
He suggested that recent discussions about resignations or relinquishing positions may be timed to coincide with upcoming elections.
According to Ti, such developments could follow a predictable political pattern — creating the perception of internal division, generating pressure, and ultimately consolidating ahead of elections.
“It is the same formula — divide, pressure, negotiate, and reunite. The goal is to protect political turf and retain support,” he said.
Broader Concerns for National Priorities
Beyond party strategies, Ti raised concerns about the recurring sidelining of key national issues, including cost-of-living pressures, economic uncertainty, wage stagnation, and education challenges.
He argued that these issues are often overshadowed by narratives centred on race and religion, particularly during politically sensitive periods.
“The rakyat are repeatedly drawn into manufactured conflicts, only to see the same political actors come together again when it suits them,” he said.
As DAP prepares for its convention, Ti urged Malaysians to remain critical and discerning in evaluating political developments.
“Do not blindly believe politicians. Do not be trapped by emotional narratives or identity politics. Focus on accountability, governance, and real outcomes,” he said. – May 18, 2026
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