What has been happening with DAP is cause for concern for opposition supporters. The party is alienating itself from even the broad aspirations of the Chinese Malaysian. After withdrawing itself from the Barisan Alternatif, it has decided to stay away from the Indera Kayangan by-election, refusing to support Keadilan and show opposition solidarity.

Meanwhile, many Chinese Malaysians, including MCA members and supporters, are rooting for Keadilan to win just so the increasingly arrogant MCA leadership and Umno are taught a lesson.

Win or lose, Keadilan has given the Chinese Malaysian hope in the long run because it also takes up issues of real importance to the community.

On the other hand, DAP is not only being unhelpful, but the party itself is seriously split over all kinds of issues. This will further erode Chinese Malaysian confidence in DAP and enhance that of Keadilan.

After 35 years, the fact that there is not a single DAP branch in Perlis, speaks volumes of the party's internal weaknesses and hollowness. Fortunately, we now have Keadilan which is better organised.

Irrespective of what happens on Jan 19, Keadilan must try hard to enhance itself in opposition politics, especially with the Chinese Malaysians who are increasingly disillusioned with not only BN but DAP as well.

However, I still hope DAP's grassroots leaders and members will go to Indera Kayangan to help out in their personal capacities. Only through opposition unity and solidarity will democracy and human rights be preserved.