It is with great sadness and disappointment that I have read Former DAP senator Tunku Abdul Aziz Tunku Ibrahim’s attack on my lineage and my family’s name. I believe that this sort of politics has no place in a modern Malaysia, and I feel sorry that someone of Tunku Aziz’s stature has fallen so low.

I know who my father is, and that is enough for me. I am also proud to say that not only have I inherited his blood, I hope more importantly that I have inherited his integrity, tenacity and principles. Just as these traits guided his unblemished political career, so too, God willing, will they guide mine.

My late father, allahyarham Khir Johari, never once gave up fighting for our country. I realise that those who are attacking me seek to subvert the struggle that I am engaged in.

But if I give in to these bullies, I will be doing a great disservice not only to myself, but also to the memory of my father.

This I will never do.

ZAIRIL KHIR JOHARI is DAP assistant national publicity secretary.