Tuesday July 31, 2007

Blogger Jeff Ooi joins main opposition party

PETALING JAYA: Blogger Jeff Ooi on Tuesday confirmed that he had joined Malaysia's main opposition party the DAP, saying that he now wished to participate in the legislative process of parliamentary democracy.

Ooi, who gained international recognition for his pioneering role in sociopolitical blogging in Malaysia, said he had now chosen his political platform.

"I do not want people to misconstrue my intentions, which is why I have launched my political blog – parliament.jeffooi.com – to convey my thoughts and agenda," he said.

“I cannot remain a fence-sitter if change is to happen,” he said at a welcming party held by the DAP (Democratic Action Party) here on Tuesday.

Asked why he left Gerakan, one of the component parties of the ruling Barian Nasional coalition of which he had been a member since 2000, the 51-year-old blogger said he needed a new platform to effectively play his role and achieve his objectives.

On speculation that he would contest in the Puchong parliamentary and Kinrara state seats following his induction into DAP, Ooi told reporters: “It’s way too soon to say anything and I’ve just officially become a member. Give it some time.”

DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, however, said Ooi was a potential candidate.

“It is definitely possible that Ooi will contest for the seats. We will announce any development,” he added.

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