Pakatan's common goal should be above individual party's - DAP chairman

While admitting that there were ideological differences among the partners in the opposition coalition, he said the differences could actually be overcome.

Tan said failure to prioritise their common goal could undermine consensus in the coalition and jeopardise their chances in the 14th general election.

"The Pakatan Rakyat formula has been proven to be effective. The people have given us the opportunity, and this opportunity may not come again in future," he said in his speech at the DAP National Convention 2014 in Subang Jaya, here, Sunday.

Tan said DAP would remain consistent with its social democratic ideology which focused on struggling for all Malaysians and on upholding the Federal Constitution and party's constitution.

The DAP convention which was attended by 938 delegates also observed a minute of silence in remembrance of three party leaders who had passed away.