Penang: The Penang DAP has been reminded not to be complacent but to begin early preparations to face the possibility that the 16th general election (GE16) and state elections are called simultaneously. DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke emphasized the importance of readiness during the Penang DAP annual convention attended by 696 delegates.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Loke highlighted that next year could be a critical period as the legislative assemblies of several states, including Johor, Melaka, and Sarawak, approach the end of their terms. He noted that if Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim decides to hold GE16 simultaneously with state elections, Parliament might need to be dissolved early. Loke clarified that while he is not asserting this will happen, his duty is to remind the Penang leadership to be prepared for any possibility, despite the state's term being long.

Loke explained that, unlike the previous general election when Pakatan Harapan-led states held elections separately, the current situation requires a more coordinated political strategy, as both federal and state governments are under the same administration. He stressed the importance of unity and party discipline to maintain public trust in DAP in Penang, cautioning against complacency.

Loke further urged all party members to respect the outcome of last year's party elections and to extend support to Penang DAP chairman Steven Sim, who succeeded Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow after Chow chose not to contest. In the 2023 Penang state election, the Pakatan Harapan-Barisan National pact secured 29 out of the 40 seats contested.