"The secretary-general (Anthony Loke) has already hinted that if we win all eight seats, then DAP may have the possibility of producing two ministers," he told reporters here on Monday (Nov 17).
DAP is contesting in N19 Likas (Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe), N21 Luyang (Chan Loong Wei), N22 Tanjung Aru (Datuk Chan Foong Hin), N25 Kapayan (Jannie Lasimbang), N43 Kemabong (Noorita Sual), N55 Elopura (Vivian Wong Shir Yee), N56 Tanjong Papat (Tang Szu Ching), and N69 Sri Tanjong (Philip Yap).
Phoong, who previously held the state Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship portfolio, said he was prepared to return as minister but stressed that DAP needed a stronger block of seats to push its economic priorities effectively.
He said the party’s campaign would centre on job creation, industrial development and reversing the long-standing outflow of young talent from Sandakan and other districts.
Highlighting employment data released recently, Phoong said improvements achieved during his previous tenure showed that DAP’s economic approach had delivered tangible results.
Phoong added that Sabah was set to see a coalition government after the election, and that any post-polls discussions should be driven by clear policy commitments rather than personalities.
"This is like European-style democracy. Every party enters with its agenda. You win first, then you negotiate based on policies," he said.
He said DAP’s priority remains focused on strengthening the economy, improving ports and logistics, attracting new industries and expanding job opportunities for the youth.
Phoong also urged Sandakan voters to support the party’s two young women candidates – Wong in Elopura and Tang in Tanjong Papat – describing them as dynamic and aligned with DAP’s long-term economic vision for Sabah.
