Like Michael Ng, I respect former opposition leaders Lim Kit Siang and Karpal Singh. I also appreciate their past contributions. All Malaysians who cherish freedom and democracy must always remember the sacrifices they have made.

However, I also think that they should gracefully give way to younger generation of oppositionists because the times have changed very much from those 60s, 70s, 80s and even 90s. A whole new generation, or two, of Malaysians have grown up with better education, broader views of the country and the world, and deeper understanding of our multi-ethnic society.

At this historic and critical turning point in our nation's history, there is no time to be nostalgic. The new opposition must look forward to the participation of more younger oppositionists from all ethnic communities and eschew any hero-worshipping.

As the country needs changes, the opposition also needs to update its mindset to embrace modernity and forward-looking view of the world. For those of us who have passed our prime time in life and careers, we should gracefully give way - without personal bitterness or resentment - to younger generation so that they will grow up happily and with larger space and lighter burden.

Now, with the emergence of Keadilan, there are many Lim Kit Siangs and Karpal Singhs among younger Malays, Chinese, Indians and other races. To a large extent, this testifies to their success because they have inspired many younger Malaysians to take up their struggle.

As fatherly teachers to all Malaysian oppositionists in their 40s and 30s, Lim and Karpal should speak and act like statesmen who are above the fray, giving advice and sharing wisdom with all irrespective of parties when needed and requested, and wishing all younger oppositionists well.

In this way, their name, honour, contribution and sacrifice as opposition statesmen will certainly be remembered fondly by all.