Considering Contesting in Bukit Gelugor By-Election

The untimely demise of the late Karpal Singh has left a void in Parliament for a MP with the courage to speak up and the experience to tackle pertinent issues that plague not only Penang but also the nation as a whole. Hence, I may stand as a candidate in the upcoming Bukit Gelugor by-election.

My decision is not based on any self-aggrandizement motivation but because I strongly believe, there is a pressing need to fill that space in Parliament so that our country can move forward. Undoubtedly, my record of accomplishment as a former Gerakan vice-president, MP for Batu Kawan from 2004-2008 and Vice-President of Parti Cinta Malaysia has enriched my experience and abilities.

Never has any defeat of failure in any circumstance been a hindrance to me. Rather, past disappointments and even successes have both shaped my political perspective to be one that is people-centred, not party-centred. Even when I was no longer MP and held no special position in any government arm, I continued to serve people by voicing concerns that affected every single Malaysian near and far. To that end, I set up CPAM (Centre for Political Awareness) to increase awareness of issues by spreading truths and stopping lies.

Even when netizens mocked me, I pressed on speaking up without fear or favour just so people can have a fair and balanced perspective of the situation.  I have never compromised my stand on principles or beliefs nor have I feared voicing out my concerns for the sake of Malaysians.

Unbeknownst to many, I am a Penangite born at Green Lane. As a thoroughbred Penang ‘lang’, the time has come for me to give back to that constituency which moulded me into who I am today via this open window. This will be the first time I am standing in a constituency on the island. As a Chinese, I prefer to stand in a constituency that has predominantly Chinese voters. Previously, I contested in the mainland – Batu Kawan and Bukit Tambun.

If I decide to stand, I will reveal my election manifesto after Nominations Day.

At this point, I am sincere in my willingness to serve Malaysians without fear or favour and most importantly, with a strong moral conscience.

There will be those who may deride my decision but judge me by my record of accomplishment. See what I did for Batu Kawan as MP and even when I was NOT MP. Perhaps then, you can see my heart to serve Malaysians regardless of creed, colour or class.

If indeed I do stand, all I ask is this chance to represent Bukit Gelugor constituents. If I were to succeed, for sure, I will maintain the late Karpal Singh’s tradition of relentlessly seeking justice, bringing development to people where it matters, listening to constituents and speaking up whenever necessary.

Written by
Datuk Huan Cheng Guan