FOUR DAP state assemblymen have officially moved to the opposition benches at the Melaka State Legislative Assembly, marking the party’s withdrawal from the state government following its decision to relinquish all administrative positions.
The four representatives are Kesidang assemblyman Allex Seah Shoo Chin, Ayer Keroh assemblyman Kerk Chee Yee, Kota Laksamana assemblyman Low Chee Leong and Banda Hilir assemblyman Leng Chau Yen.
Their move on the third day of the state assembly sitting increased the opposition bloc in Melaka to six members, compared with only two previously.
The opposition bench now consists of opposition leader Dr Mohd Yadzil Yaakub, the Bemban assemblyman who is currently an Independent, Sungai Udang assemblyman Dr Mohd Aleef Yusoh from Perikatan Nasional (PN), and the four DAP representatives.
However, Melaka Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman and Bukit Katil assemblyman Adly Zahari from Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) remained seated on the government side.
The political reshuffle followed DAP Melaka chairman Khoo Poay Tiong’s announcement on Tuesday that the party was withdrawing from the state administration with immediate effect after the Melaka State Legislative Assembly passed a motion related to the appointment of state assembly members.
Khoo said the decision was consistent with DAP’s position in rejecting the constitutional amendment, which the party claimed was against democratic principles and undermined the mandate given by voters through elections.
All DAP representatives holding positions in the state administration also stepped down, including State Executive Councillor Allex Seah, Deputy Executive Councillors Low Chee Leong and Leng Chau Yen, as well as Deputy Speaker Kerk Chee Yee.
DAP had previously opposed the amendment to the Melaka State Constitution, arguing that it conflicted with democratic principles and failed to respect the choices and mandate made by the people of Melaka through the electoral process.
The decision drew a response from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who urged DAP Melaka to reconsider and delay its withdrawal from the state government to allow greater focus on development efforts and the welfare of the people.
The withdrawal has further altered the political balance in Melaka, where the Barisan Nasional-led state administration now faces a strengthened opposition presence in the assembly. - July 15, 2026
