Media statement by M.Kula Segaran in Ipoh on Monday, 15^th November 2010:

Despite my defeat at the state election, I shall continue to soldier on the DAP's political cause of fighting for a better Malaysia for all Malaysians

The results of the Perak DAP election held yesterday came as a shock to me. It was also a very painful day for me.

It was shocking because capable and dedicated leaders like Sdr Thomas Su, Sdr Seah Long Peng, Sdr Keong Meng Sing, Sdr Cheong Chee Khing, and Sdr Frankie Wong... were heavily defeated. They even lost to candidates who had no track record and were lesser or hardly known within and outside the party.

I accept my defeat as in any contest, one either wins or loses. I am pained though by such setback.

What has pained me is the fact that what should have been a healthy contest has turned out to be a day of "slaughter" of capable, committed and dedicated comrades who could have easily sailed through in a fair and healthy contest.

There have been questions about the entitlement of about 50 branches to send 350 delegates to the Convention and this will definitely cast doubt on whether the winners have the right to claim moral authority of their victory.

Nevertheless, I wish to announce that despite my defeat at the state election, I shall continue to soldier on the DAP's political cause of fighting for a better Malaysia for all Malaysians.

I like to take this opportunity to thank party leaders, members and supporters who have since yesterday, through sms, tweets and phone conversations, conveyed their kind and encouraging words of support and solidarity.

I also wish to thank Sdr Dr Chen Man Hin, Sdr Karpal Singh, Sdr Lim Kit Siang , Sdr Lim Guan Eng and Sdr Tan Kok Wai for their tireless efforts before the Convention to ensure the election could produce a united, dynamic and capable team of state leaders.

I had played my part and offered my olive branch but sad to say, the top leaders' efforts had failed as their success would require willingness from both sides to cooperate for the larger interest.

Lastly, I received a sms this morning from Sdr Ngeh Koo Ham which reads "Sdr Kula Would like to inform you that the new state committee unanimously agree to co opt you and elect you to the post of Vice Chairman. Looking forward to working together with you."

I shall seek feedback and views from party leaders and grassroots as well as supporters on whether I should accept such a cooption.

Among the factors which I shall like to find out is how best I continue to play an effective role in state politics.

* M. Kula Segaran, DAP National Vice Chairman & MP for Ipoh Barat