The Democratic Action Party (DAP) will convene its National Congress on Sunday, August 16, 2026, where 4,264 delegates from 1,704 branches will vote on whether the party should continue participating in the federal government [1, 2]. Currently, DAP holds five ministerial and seven deputy minister positions but has suffered losses in recent state elections, including seats in Sabah, Johor, and Negeri Sembilan [2].
Transport Minister Anthony Loke, a prominent DAP leader, said he was "very relaxed" ahead of the congress and dismissed rumors that the Transport Ministry assembly held on August 13 would be his last, stating, "Do I look nervous? I don't know why you are asking such a question. I am very relaxed today." [1]
If the delegates vote to relinquish government posts, DAP has pledged it will continue supporting Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Parliament until the end of the current term [2].
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education (MOE) introduced a new School Pupil Protection Policy through a Professional Circular dated July 1, 2026, requiring school personnel and external parties to sign a Compliance Pledge committing to pupil safety [3, 4, 5, 6]. The policy addresses five areas: mental health; reproductive and social health education; child sexual violence and substance abuse prevention; pupil protection policies; teacher welfare; and pupil voice [3, 4, 5, 6].
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek urged educators to remain calm amid mixed reactions and announced a special session with stakeholders to clarify the policy. She said, "MOE is committed to ensuring that every policy is executed carefully and responsibly to create a safe school environment." [3, 4, 6]
The National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) expressed support for pupil safety efforts but opposed the Compliance Pledge requirement. NUTP secretary-general Fouzi Singon said, "While the union supports MOE's efforts to keep pupils safe and protected at school, it deems the pledge requirement inappropriate and believes it undermines teachers' ability to provide the best protection." [4]
The Federation of Peninsular Malay Students (GPMS) backed the policy but called for broader engagement with educators to ensure clear and fair implementation. Its president, Fazreen Fauzi, remarked, "Protecting pupils is a trust, but protecting teachers is also a responsibility." [5]
On another front, the Transport Ministry announced it will seek clarification from the Finance Ministry on the tax treatment of commingled oil cargo following concerns from the maritime industry. Anthony Loke said, "We will seek further clarification from MOF [on commingled oil tax]." [7]
The DAP National Congress on August 16 will be a critical test for the party's direction amid shifting political dynamics and electoral setbacks. [1, 2]
