DESPITE the strides Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s administration has made in external relations, the biggest challenge faced by his unity government is managing the differences among the parties that make up the coalition and uniting them towards a common goal, DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke said.

In a New Year message on Facebook, the most senior DAP man in the cabinet said differences in opinion will arise from time to time but in the unity government cabinet, “no single party can dominate another in any decision”.

He said members of the cabinet “must manage every situation with a cool head and always adhere to the spirit of consensus”.

Loke said all governmental policies and key decisions must only be decided through cabinet discussions and consensus.

Reaffirming his commitment to the principle of collective responsibility, he said his New Year’s resolution therefore, was “to continue playing a constructive role in enhancing the cooperation and sustainability of the unity government, as well as to deliver at my ministry as a contribution to the government’s overall performance”.

“On behalf of the DAP, I reaffirm to the Malaysian people that our commitment in the government is to ensure political stability, foster racial harmony and advance the people’s well-being.”

Loke said 2024 is all about “economy! economy! economy!”, in line with the prime minister’s focus.

Reflecting on 2023, he said the country had overcome various challenges.

“Many national policies and strategies such as the Madani Economy, New Industrial Master Plan, National Energy Transition Roadmap, and more, have been crafted and unveiled for execution.

“The investment climate has been reinvigorated and investors’ confidence in Malaysia’s economic future is increasing.

“Malaysia’s foreign policy and international role on the global stage have gained prominence and attention from major powers. Our bilateral ties with countries in Asean and East Asia have strengthened and facilitated stronger trade growth,” he said. – December 30, 2023.



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