DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke has urged Pakatan Harapan (PH) to make the federal government’s record the focus of its Melaka election campaign, rather than resorting to personal attacks against political opponents.
Speaking at PH Melaka’s candidate announcement and election machinery launch at Stadium Hang Jebat last night, Loke said the administration led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had maintained political stability, sustained economic growth and strengthened Malaysia’s standing on the international stage.
Loke, who is also PH deputy chairman, acknowledged that the coalition had suffered electoral setbacks in some states but said these should not weaken its resolve ahead of the Melaka polls.
“In politics, sometimes we win, and sometimes we lose. We do not always get the best results. What matters most is that our fighting spirit remains strong,” he said.
“Although we lost in Negeri Sembilan, we will rise again in Melaka. In PH, we stand together through good times and bad.”
Loke said Malaysia’s stability amid uncertainty in other countries was among the government’s key achievements, alongside economic growth and the continued provision of subsidised fuel.
He said these were among the issues PH should bring to voters, while pointing to the government’s subsidy rationalisation measures as a way to direct assistance more effectively and free up funds for other public programmes.
He also cited Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA), education incentives and tax measures as examples of assistance provided to the public.
Loke said support must extend beyond low-income households to include middle-income families and students who needed financial assistance to continue their education.
He also stressed the need to tackle corruption and curb leakages, saying public revenue must be managed responsibly and returned to the people through measures that improve their welfare.
Citing RM91 million raised from the sale of H-series vehicle registration numbers, Loke said the proceeds were being channelled back to eligible taxi drivers, with each set to receive RM1,000.
“For taxi drivers in Melaka, please take note. I will be there on Monday morning (tomorrow), and we will hand over RM1,000 directly to each taxi driver,” he said.
Loke said the government had a duty to safeguard the country’s assets and revenue, ensuring public funds were used for the benefit of the people.
“We believe we have been entrusted with the responsibility of managing the government, the country, and its assets and revenue for the well-being of the people. That is our philosophy in government,” he said.
He urged Melaka voters to continue supporting PH, saying the coalition would remain committed to policies aimed at improving their lives.
Anwar, in his address before the candidates were announced, also referred to speeches by Loke, PH secretariat chief Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and Amanah president Mohamad Sabu. – October 25, 2026