In a series of tweets, Dian Lee said she understood why some people questioned her motives for  participating in politics, and added that this kind of scrutiny was nonetheless healthy and necessary to promote greater public accountability.

She also said she could not change who her father was but maintained that she had her own principles, values and beliefs.

“What should be obvious is that I surely didn’t join a new opposition party for any enrichment. In fact, there is more to lose than to gain.

“Only through time will I be able to demonstrate to my fellow Malaysians that my heart and intentions are to build a more progressive, transparent and inclusive Malaysia for the sake of our future and children.”

Lee, 38, also acknowledged that there was a lot of frustration with the state of the country, saying Malaysians had been hurt and deceived by politicians far too many times.

Previously, news that she had joined Muda in December had drawn the attention of netizens, with some raising suspicion over the party’s ties to the tycoon.

Lee is the co-founder of The Clearwater Group, which is involved in property development, food and beverage, and health and wellness business activities.