THE Democratic Action Party (DAP) has reiterated its commitment to respecting the royal institution, insisting that it has never deviated from its long-held principle of upholding the monarchy as a cornerstone of Malaysia’s constitutional system.
DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the party’s position is rooted in ensuring continued harmony between the royal institution and the country’s administrative framework.
He said the party, however, also upholds the right of its elected representatives to raise issues in legislative assemblies as part of their democratic responsibility.
“As a Member of the Legislative Assembly, they must have the space to convey views respectfully and in a proper manner. That is the responsibility of an elected representative.
“Therefore, I want to emphasise that the DAP leadership will defend the rights of our assemblyman to deliver critical and insightful views in the State Legislative Assembly, even knowing they will face various pressures,” he said.
Loke made the remarks following criticism directed at Seri Kembangan assemblywoman Wong Siew Ki over her comments during a debate on the Selangor Sultan’s royal address in the State Legislative Assembly.
Wong had reportedly urged the Selangor state government to consider allowing the development of modern and closed-system pig farming in the state, citing policy and environmental management considerations.
She also referenced Article 8(2) of the Federal Constitution in relation to equality provisions.
Loke said the issue had been politicised by opponents of the party.
“This has naturally been seized upon by Perikatan Nasional and the opposition to turn it into an issue, claiming that DAP does not respect the royal institution or the Sultan. I want to stress that DAP has always respected the royal institution and respects His Royal Highness the Sultan of Selangor,” he said.
He reiterated that the party remains firm in its respect for the monarchy while allowing space for constructive legislative debate.
Loke was speaking at the DAP Kinrara Charity Dinner in Pusat Bandar Puchong on Saturday, which was also attended by DAP national chairman Gobind Singh Deo, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, and Senior Political Adviser to the Prime Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz. - April 26, 2026
