DAP WARNS MEMBERS ABOUT DATUKSHIPS
Action to be taken against members who accept titles, says DAP sec-gen
DAP will take action against members who do not adhere to the party’s long-standing rule against accepting Datukships, state awards and medals during their tenure in office.
Party secretary-general Lim Guan Eng said DAP members, especially those appointed as executive committee (exco) members, must never “forget their roots” or go against the DAP Central Executive Committee’s decision on the matter.
The finance minister said DAP members, who were elected to office, must hold on to the party’s struggles and strive to serve the people, not seek awards and titles.
“Remember the sacrifices of members who fought for a better and just country.
“They received nothing in return. Our struggles are not for the sake of positions.
“You have been elected as exco members and now you want Datukship. The (Penang) chief minister does not have the Datuk title. I was Penang CM for 10 years, but I am not a (Datuk). Does this mean I have failed?
“I’m proud to call you ‘saudara saudari’. As DAP secretary-general, I am warning those who have forgotten their roots that action will be taken against them.
“It doesn’t matter what position you hold. Don’t play the fool with me,” Lim said at the Federal Territory DAP Convention at the party’s headquarters here yesterday.
Present was DAP national chairman Tan Kok Wai, who is Federal Territory DAP chairman.
Lim previously chided several party leaders for accepting Datukships from state rulers, saying it did not reflect the party’s principles.
Lim did not mention names, but he was believed to be referring to DAP representatives who were conferred awards by state rulers recently.
They are Bandar Hilir assemblyman Tey Kok Kiew and Bemban assemblyman Wong Fort Pin, who received the Darjah Mulia Seri Melaka, which carries the title Datuk.
They received the award in conjunction with Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Melaka Tun Dr Mohd Khalil Yaakob’s 80th birthday on Oct 13.
Two Sabah DAP leaders, Stephen Wong dan Frankie Poon were conferred the Panglima Gemilang Darjah Kinabalu, which carries the title Datuk.
Fort Pin, Stephen and Poon have apologised to the DAP central leadership for accepting the awards.
Tey was recently described by Lim as “stubborn” for failing to apologise.
Lim said DAP leaders who held positions in the government must show a good example to new members by advocating the party’s policy of not accepting titles.
“Don’t go against the party or its leadership. Don’t forget that you are an elected representative for the people and not for yourself, which is why I have to be strict with those who disrespect the party, regardless of their ranks. I want new members to know that joining DAP is not about being comfortable. It is about ensuring our country and children are comfortable.”