Chong: DAP Sarawak considering police report against SUPP over alleged 1MDB-linked funds

KUCHING (Jan 12): Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen said the party is considering lodging a police report against the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) over its alleged receipt of funds linked to 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).

He said this move aimed to send a clear message that government funds must not be used to finance political parties.

Chong alleged that SUPP had received RM1 million linked to 1MDB, which warranted investigation following court rulings that funds from 1MDB were stolen from the people.

“Now, there is already a court decision that the money from 1MDB is money stolen from the people and from the government. Whoever receives stolen money is as guilty as the thief who stole the money—that is the law,” he said during the opening ceremony of the DAP Sarawak headquarters here.

He stressed that DAP rejected the practice of using government positions or resources to fund party activities, as party and public finances should be kept separate.

“Even though we are part of the federal government, it does not mean we can use government money for party purposes. Government money is money for the people.”

He said the renovation of DAP’s headquarters had been funded through public donations, and that despite costs exceeding the initial budget, the party chose to rely on voluntary contributions rather than public funds.

“There is no compulsion (to donate). There is no condition that anyone who comes to seek our help must donate. Not a single DAP staff or member tells the public that they must pay for our service,” he said.

Meanwhile, during his speech, Chong reflected on DAP’s 48 years in Sarawak, and acknowledged that some leaders had left the party due to political pressure or temptation.

“That in itself is a testimony that the journey of DAP Sarawak is full of challenges. However, the party has remained standing because it has stayed true to its principles. I call on all party members to stay united ahead of the anticipated Sarawak election. We must stick to our conviction—to the party, to the people, and to the state,” he said.

1Malaysia Development Berhad Chong Chieng Jen lead police report Sarawak United People's Party