Former Kapayan leader quits DAP Sabah, slams leadership failures
Liew (left) with independent Kudat Member of Parliament Verdon Bahanda.
KOTA KINABALU (May 16): Long-time grassroots figure and former Kapayan Community Development Officer (PPM), Cyril Liew, has announced his resignation from the Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sabah, citing a lack of transparency, accountability, and leadership direction on issues critical to Sabahans.
In a strongly worded statement, Liew criticized the state party's silence on key matters such as anti-corruption efforts and the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). He warned that the party's continued inaction could erode public confidence ahead of the upcoming 17th State Election (PRN17).
'I had personally reached out to DAP Sabah chairman Datuk Ginger Phoong to seek clarity on the party's stance. My message was read, but no response was given. That silence speaks volumes,' Liew said.
He also expressed deep disappointment in DAP Sabah deputy chairperson Jannie Lasimbang, accusing her of failing to uphold the party's core values of integrity and good governance.
'As the former BERSIH Sabah chair, I find it shameful that Jannie remains silent on these critical issues while holding public office. The people deserve leaders who act in their best interests,' he added.
Liew singled out DAP Policy Bureau chief Datuk Chan Foong Hin, saying his performance on MA63 implementation was 'zero,' and urged voters to rethink their support for career politicians.
'Datuk Chan has done little to advance MA63 rights. Recycled politicians like him should step aside. Sabahans deserve results, not recycled promises,' he said.
Highlighting internal disarray, Liew revealed that he had to personally fund and manage the PPM Office at Kobusak Commercial Centre due to the party's failure to provide institutional support.
'Even basic staff welfare was mismanaged. This shows how disconnected the leadership is from the ground,' he said.
Liew also announced his departure from DAP and his alignment with Gelombang Hitam (Bebas), a growing grassroots movement he describes as non-partisan and people-driven.
'I'm not here to challenge the government or opposition. I'm here to provide an alternative platform that genuinely reflects the people's aspirations,' he said.
With over four years of community service, Liew affirmed his continued dedication to the Kapayan constituency.
'I've been solving real issues with the people every day. Kapayan deserves a voice — not just during elections, but in everyday development,' he added.
As the state election approaches, Liew called on DAP Sabah to avoid campaigning on anti-corruption or MA63 promises.
'They've had nearly five years in power and failed to act. Their roles in government have silenced them. It's time for a new, people-first approach,' he said.
Jannie expressed her regret over Cyril's announcement to resign from DAP and to contest as independent.
Jannie also declared that she is ready to defend her Kapayan seat in the 17th state election.
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