As the results of the elections rolled in on Sunday night, a friend commented, "The Islamic state is dead ... long live the state of despair!"

Yes, what is clear is the rejection of the Islamic state by the people, demonstrated by the poor showing of PAS and to a certain extent Keadilan and the relatively strong showing of DAP after leaving the Barisan Alternatif.

The results suggest that the strong performance of PAS in the election of 1999 could be partly attributed to the rejection of the Barisan Nasional then rather than an acceptance of PAS' Islamic ideology.

To a large extent, Keadilan's poor showing in this election is due to its alliance with PAS. Contesting in mostly mixed constituencies, time and again Keadilan leaders found themselves having to explain its allegiance to the BA and also PAS' intention to turn Malaysia into an Islamic state.

Many people I have spoken to failed to comprehend how Keadilan can work with PAS without also subscribing to the latter's objective to turn Malaysia into an Islamic state. Some have felt that a vote for Keadilan is also a vote for PAS.

With the exception of a few small squeaks, Keadilan has not done enough to reject PAS' views for an Islamic state, perhaps fearing it would portray an disunited opposition front or offend its political ally.

I understand that Keadilan is an infant in Malaysian political scene, fighting to survive with three other more established bullies - BN, DAP and PAS. It therefore has to tread with care so as not to get stomped on by the bullies. But past events show that you don't need to offend other parties to incur their wrath, they would try to kill off Keadilan regardless. Is it too late for Keadilan to fight back?

Keadilan must reconsider its participation in the Barisan Alternatif. PAS' true colours emerged with the rejection of Dr Syed Husin Ali candidacy in Kota Bahru and the fielding of PAS candidates against Keadilan in Taman Medan and Dengkil.

PAS is not a party to be trusted and I, for one, do believe that my life as a non-Muslim would be adversely affected should PAS ever come into power. Keadilan has more than enough merit on its own to go it alone as a political party. It does not need the support or approval of the other more established opposition parties.

On a more optimistic note, the poor showing by Keadilan will see another round of defections of its members back to Umno. I believe this will be a welcomed event for Keadilan as these members are probably in the party for the wrong reasons - personal gains among them.

Those who remain would be people dedicated to making Malaysia a better place to be in with equality for all regardless of race, religion or gender. I am convinced Keadilan will grow in time to become the true champion of the Malaysian people.