DAP Consistent In Pursuing Reform Agenda - Gobind

PUCHONG, April 25 (Bernama) -- DAP will remain consistent in fighting for the reform and renewal agenda, despite acknowledging that implementation takes time as it requires understanding and consensus within the Unity Government.

DAP National Chairman Gobind Singh Deo said that as part of today's administration, the party remains steadfast in its promise to bring significant change to the country.

"When we talk about reform, we must remember that it takes time. This is important because we are now in a government consisting of different parties. We need to reach an agreement before we can move forward, and this is something for which I ask understanding from all parties," he said.

He said this while speaking at the DAP Kinrara Charity Dinner at Pusat Bandar Puchong here tonight, which was also attended by DAP Secretary-General Anthony Loke Siew Fook and Senior Political Advisor to the Prime Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

Gobind said that DAP has never wavered from its original principles in carrying out reforms, including those involving controversial acts.

Citing the issue of the abolition of the Sedition Act 1948, he noted that DAP has continuously called for the law to be amended, and that stance remains to this day.

"However, because certain agreements could not be reached, we cannot implement (the abolition) at this time. What is important is for everyone to understand that we are in the process of taking action to bring about these reforms," he said.

Gobind said he had raised in Cabinet the issue of the Sedition Act being used against government critics, resulting in the Cabinet reaffirming its position that the Act will not be used in such cases.

He said he had also spoken in the Cabinet on the recent ban on books by the Home Ministry, after which the Home Minister had decided to review the ban.

On other matters, Gobind said DAP had pushed for reforms to laws such as the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act (SOSMA), with amendments underway, as well as the two-term limit for the Prime Minister, which will be retabled in Parliament in June, and the separation of the roles of the Attorney General and the Public Prosecutor.

He added that DAP's commitment to moving forward is not only focused on improving the legal ecosystem but also encompasses efforts to strengthen the economy and enhance service quality for the well-being of all Malaysians.

Meanwhile, Tengku Zafrul said the Unity Government requires continuous support from the people in carrying out the reforms emphasised by DAP and urged the public to be understanding.

"We must have patience with reform, patience with delivery and patience with trust,” he said.

At the same time, he emphasised that the MADANI Government must ensure political stability remains guaranteed to maintain investor confidence and strengthen the country's economic resilience in facing current challenges.

--BERNAMA