Kulasegaran withdraws from DAP polls, wants new faces

Summary

• DAP vice-chairperson M Kulasegaran announces his withdrawal from the party’s central executive committee election, calling for younger leaders to take charge while urging the party to stay true to its founding principles.

• He highlights his contributions as human resources minister and stresse the need for expedited reforms, warning against political delays in addressing issues affecting vulnerable communities.

Another DAP veteran, M Kulasegaran, has announced his withdrawal from contesting in the party’s upcoming central executive committee (CEC) election, citing the need to make way for younger leaders.

In a statement today, the DAP vice-chairperson said it was time to step back as the party rejuvenates itself to meet the nation’s evolving challenges.

“I sincerely hope the party will continue to stay true to its founding principles while charting a new course with the younger generation at the helm,” he said.

The 67-year-old deputy minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Laws and Institutional Reforms) reminded the party to uphold its socialist foundation by fighting for equity, justice, human rights, and good governance.

“I joined DAP because of its socialist and democratic ideals - a multi-ethnic struggle for a just and inclusive Malaysia. It has been a profound honour to be part of this journey.

“From its inception, DAP has championed the rights of ordinary, working-class Malaysians and human rights as a whole.”

He also paid tribute to party members who endured arrests, persecution, and financial hardship to support the party’s cause, urging leaders to honour their contributions.

“I remember how, despite harsh financial hardship, many of our members then spent from their own pockets to attend party events, assist in elections, and support our cause, all in the pure hope of building a better Malaysia.

“These dedicated members are still with us today, and we must continue to honour their contributions. I hope they will not be forgotten,” he said.

‘Reforms must be expedited’

Kulasegaran reflected on his tenure as human resources minister, highlighting his role in introducing labour law reforms, strengthening workers’ rights, improving wages, and expanding social security protections.

He stressed the urgency of reforms, warning against political delays.

“Substantive reforms across all sectors must be expedited - political expediency and delays in implementation are unacceptable.

“The poor, vulnerable, and downtrodden urgently need affirmative action to uplift their lives. Without decisive action, nothing will change.”

Kulasegaran also expressed gratitude to DAP veterans Lim Kit Siang, party chairperson Lim Guan Eng, secretary-general Anthony Loke, and party supporters for their guidance and solidarity over the years.

His withdrawal followed that of the party’s veteran MPs, Tan Kok Wai and Fong Kui Lun, who announced two days ago that they would not be contesting to allow space for a new generation of leaders.

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