I am disappointed with the opposition/alternative with regard to the Indera Kayangan by-election. While DAP has decided not to contest there, it's obvious that the party is in no position to do so anyway as it hardly has a presence in Perlis, the smallest of the Malaysian states.

The by-election presents the opportunity for Malaysians to make known their wish for more democracy, freedom and justice, and not just what the present Barisan National is willing to give.

Once again the voting citizens are faced with the dilemma — to choose the ruling BN or the opposition which appears to be still wet behind the ears.

As soon as the by-election date was announced DAP decided not to help the opposition candidate. And DAP also assumed that the issues for the by-election will again be the Islamic state matter.

I am sure there are plenty of other issues to talk about. Oh, where are you to be found — opposition solidarity!

Keadilan is no better, having found itself unprepared, even though it has been known that it wants to contest the seat. Until today there is no potential candidate. And if the press is to be believed - it wants an MCA life member to be its candidate!

PAS at least came out directly saying it will not be contesting. I hope that PAS will not harp on the Islamic state issue during the campaign. We are sure that BN will, as usual, use all that it has at its disposal to discredit the opposition to ensure victory.

As far as BN is concerned the campaign has started - the latest Kumpulan Mujahidin Malaysia arrests and the TV clips of 'Taliban Malaysia' are just starters.

But having said all that, I hope that the opposition will get its act together and I wish them all the best.