KUCHING: Kota Sentosa Assemblyman, Wilfred Yap Sau Sin, has accused the opposition Democratic Action Party (DAP) of engaging in “political theatre” rather than constructive debate.
In a strongly worded response to recent remarks made by DAP’s representative, Michael Kong Feng Nian, he dismissed Kong’s portrayal of DAP as a principled opposition.
Instead, Yap alleged that the party’s track record reflected “reckless politicking” and a tendency to stoke fear for political mileage.
“This is the same DAP that once claimed Sarawak would go bankrupt within three years under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s leadership,” said Yap from the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP).
He said this in reference to past opposition to the state’s Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) initiative.
“They called it wasteful; now it’s becoming a symbol of progress,” he added.
Yap pointed to a public apology previously issued by DAP leaders over the bankruptcy claim, suggesting it reflected the party’s habit of making unsubstantiated allegations.
The ART project, now under construction here, is part of a broader strategy by the Sarawak Government to modernise urban transport and reduce reliance on private vehicles.
Yap’s rebuttal also questioned DAP’s current role within the federal government, arguing that the party had remained notably silent on key Sarawak issues since returning to power under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s administration.
He highlighted the long-standing debate over recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) and implementation of rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), suggesting that DAP’s tone had shifted markedly since entering government.
“Where is their voice now on increased development funding, UEC recognition, or MA63? These are not the actions of a principled party,” Yap said.
“They shout when it’s convenient, and fall silent when it’s time to deliver.”
Responding to Kong’s accusation that SUPP acts as a ‘rubber stamp’ within the ruling Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), Yap defended his party’s approach as pragmatic and policy-driven.
“We don’t do performative outrage. We work from within to shape policy and get things done,” he said, adding, “while DAP holds press conferences, SUPP holds the line for Sarawak.”
He maintained that Sarawak’s progress hinged on “steady hands, not showmanship”, adding that GPS was committed to pursuing autonomy and development through strategic engagement with both state and federal institutions.
