Melaka DAP has withdrawn from the state government with immediate effect, following the passing of the Melaka State Constitution (Amendment) Enactment 2026, which introduces the appointed assemblymen system.
DAP Melaka chairman Khoo Poay Tiong said the party rejected the amendment on the grounds that assembly seats should be determined by voters through elections rather than government appointments.
“On that note, it is determined that DAP could not continue holding positions in the state administration while opposing a bill passed by the state government, leading to the resignation of all its representatives holding government posts,” Khoo added.
Those stepping down include Allex Seah Shoo Chin as state executive councillor for Entrepreneur Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs; Leng Chau Yen as deputy executive councillor for Women, Family and Community Development; Low Chee Leong as deputy executive councillor for Rural Development, Agriculture and Food Security; and Kerk Chee Yee as Melaka State Legislative Assembly deputy speaker.
Khoo also highlighted that all DAP Melaka representatives appointed as local council members by the state government will also resign from their positions.
He said while the party supported greater participation from professionals in policymaking, this could be achieved through advisory committees, expert panels or policy platforms rather than appointing them as assemblymen with associated allowances and administrative facilities.
“Democracy cannot be compromised and the people’s mandate must be respected,” Khoo explained, while asking when will Merlimau assemblymen Datuk Dr Akmal Saleh would fulfil his previous pledge of resigning from the state government.
