Keeping a promise can come at a cost. For Anthony Loke, that meant giving up his position as transport minister.
According to Utusan Malaysia, Loke confirmed that his resignation took effect the previous day, stressing that he wanted his actions to match his words.
Speaking at the Transport Ministry’s monthly assembly and Cahaya MADANI Deepavali celebration in Putrajaya, he said the decision was firm and final.
Wants to be a politician who keeps his word
Loke acknowledged that many people struggle to trust politicians because they are often seen as making promises they fail to fulfil.
He said he wanted to uphold the principle of “cakap serupa bikin”, which means backing up one’s words with action.
What I say, I will do and carry out. These are not just empty words,” he said.
The Seremban MP and DAP secretary-general added that he had publicly stated his position almost two months earlier and was following through on it.
He also dismissed suggestions that his decision to leave the post remained unresolved, reiterating that it was clear and definite.
A position can be lost, but credibility must stay
For Loke, protecting his credibility mattered more than holding on to his ministerial position.
He said a politician’s credibility reflects their integrity and shapes whether the public can trust their leadership.
A position can be lost, but credibility must be maintained. For me, my words are my credibility.”
He added that once someone loses credibility, people may no longer believe what they say or trust what they do.
A lesson he learnt from his father
Loke said his commitment to keeping his word came from a lesson taught by his father: once a promise is made, it should be honoured, even when doing so is difficult.
He added that people must take responsibility for their statements, as their words reflect their character and principles.
