Former Subang Member of Parliament Wong Chen resigned his seat and left the People's Justice Party (PKR) on August 10, 2026, after nearly two decades of membership, in compliance with Malaysia’s anti-party hopping law that prohibits MPs from switching parties while keeping their seats [1, 2, 3, 4]. Wong submitted his resignation letter on August 5 and his resignation took effect five days later, officially leaving the Dewan Rakyat informed on August 11 [4].
On August 12, Wong Chen was formally welcomed into the Bersama party at a press conference led by Bersama chairman Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli [1, 2, 5, 6, 3, 7]. Rafizi announced Wong would oversee the preparation of a series of 12 policy papers titled "Kertas Kancil," which will include public consultations and constitutional amendments as the party prepares for elections expected in six to seven months [6, 7].
Bersama also appointed seven new spokespersons including economist Sum Dek Joe, accountant Wan Zulaika Abdul Kahar, engineer Jhen Pei Seah, and former Subang Jaya councillor Anbarasan Murugesu, among others [6, 7].
Wong, who was removed as non-executive chairman of Malaysia Debt Ventures Bhd in May 2026, described the current political climate as "very toxic," adding, "We are here to show you the face of a multiracial, progressive party" [1, 2, 3]. He called his resignation a "heartbreaking moment" after nearly 17 to 20 years with PKR [2].
Following Wong’s resignation, the Election Commission and Dewan Rakyat Speaker confirmed there will be no by-election for the Subang parliamentary seat, citing Article 54 (1) of the Federal Constitution [4]. Election Commission Chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun said, "The Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat has informed the EC that there is no need to fill the contingency vacancy."
Wong Chen's formal entry into Bersama marks a significant step as the party positions itself ahead of the next general elections in approximately half a year. His role in overseeing policy papers is expected to shape Bersama's campaign platform.
