A roaring tribute to Karpal

KUALA LUMPUR: There was hardly a dry eye as throngs of people gathered at the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall here tonight to pay tribute to former DAP chairman, the late Karpal Singh.
There were emotional scenes as a video of Karpal's funeral service in Penang on April 20 was shown.
The hall was packed with more than 2,000 people, with many more filling up every foot of space in the corridors and entrance of the hall.
They had all come to pay respect to the man who stood tall from his wheelchair.
A large projection screen was also set up at the parking lot for those outside to follow the memorial proceedings.
Former National Human Rights Society (Hakam) chairman Malik Imtiaz Sarwar, who grew up with Karpal's sons Jagdeep and Gobind, recalled memories of Karpal during his childhood, remembering him as the "coolest man" he ever knew, and as his inspiration in becoming a lawyer.
Writer, playwright and activist Hishammudin Rais composed a song about Karpal's passing, which brought tears to many. He said the Federal Constitution had lost one of its fiercest defenders.
Gobind's speech started on a heart-wrenching note as he recounted his father's last visit, and the moments when his family was told of the tragic accident.
"The fight does not end with his life, it continues," said Gobind, ending his speech with a roar.
Former Bar Council chairman and Bersih leader Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan said in her speech that when God made Karpal Singh, He broke the mould.
"There was never a man more fearless in upholding the law and the Federal Constitution. I'm glad the roar of the 'Tiger' has not been silenced, for his cubs have come forth (to) carry on their father's fight," she said.
Later, to the chants of "Reformasi! Reformasi!" from the crowd, PKR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim walked in to pay tribute to Karpal.