Sabah DAP has yet to decide on its collaboration with the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS)-led government, says chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe.

Phoong, who is in the state cabinet, said public feedback gathered during the party’s Chinese New Year Jelajah campaign will guide the decision. 

The Luyang assemblyman is Sabah’s Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister in the GRS-led Sabah cabinet. 

The campaign has visited Lahad Datu, Keningau, Tenom, and Kota Kinabalu, with Sandakan, Tawau, and Papar next before it concludes after Chinese New Year.

“We are listening to the people to ensure our actions align with their aspirations,” Phoong said.

The move follows DAP’s Central Executive Committee granting the Sabah chapter full authority on December 10, 2024, to reassess its role in the government.

This came after corruption allegations against several GRS leaders over mining licenses emerged in November.

Phoong reiterated DAP’s firm anti-corruption stance and urged for swift investigations.

He also maintained the matter would be brought to the Sabah PH council for deliberation before they make public of their decision.

Phoong said a decision of such multitude would certainly affect the PH coalition in the state if it is not done with proper consideration.

Meanwhile, he also expressed confidence in newly elected Sabah PH chairman Datuk Ewon Benedick, calling his appointment democratic and legitimate.

“The rocket has flown; how can you reverse it?” he said of Benedick’s leadership.

The election of Benedick, who defeated former chairman Datuk Christina Liew on December 1, remains disputed by Sabah PKR leaders, including Datuk Mustapha Sakmut, who referred the matter to the PH presidential council.

Sabah DAP plans to consult Pakatan Harapan (PH) Sabah on its next steps while continuing to serve the people. – January 19, 2025.