KUCHING, May 23: State Democratic Action Party (DAP) says the view put forth by state DAP Socialist Youth (DAPSY) to have a Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) II post for East Malaysia is a personal one which does not reflect that of state DAP.
DAPSY publicity secretary Abdul Aziz isa had in a statement yesterday urged Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to create another DPM post to represent East Malaysia in the federal government.
He suggested state PH chairman Chong Chieng Jen be appointed as the DPM II in the second batch of federal cabinet appointments which is due to be revealed soon.
He said it is high time for an East Malaysian to be appointed as DPM II since the formation of Malaysia in 1963.
In a statement today, state DAP vice-chairman Leon Jimat Donald said state DAP will abide by Pakatan Harapan (PH) election manifesto.
“I wish to reiterate that DAP Sarawak will abide by the consensus agreed in the PH election manifesto.”
“It is my view that the request by Abdul Aziz asking for a DPM post diminishes the power and prestige of the honourable post, which will render the position meaningless,” said Jimat.
He said what is important right now is the implementation and formulation of good and fair policies for the people of Sarawak.
“The creation of the Deputy Prime Minister II post without the prestige and power will be for decorative purposes only and it is merely window dressing at best without any proper function.
“DAP Sarawak will focus on pushing for policies that are beneficial to all Sarawakians rather than focusing on fighting for ministerial positions,” he said.
He said Abdul Aziz was merely expressing his personal sentiment, which did not represent the position of DAP Sarawak. — DayakDaily
