He won’t be silenced: Dr Wee has been criticised for disagreeing with his fellow lawmakers in the unity government but he says he won’t remain silent about issues concerning the people. — LOW LAY PHON/The Star
MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong says he is a man who will speak out when needed. And that sometimes has people saying he’s too outspoken – but that’s OK because he is happy to say that he is not a “yes man”.
“My main concern is the welfare of the people. Just because I’m in the unity government, it doesn’t mean I’m a yes man,” said Dr Wee at a recent interview with several media outlets.
During the far ranging conversation, Dr Wee touched on everything from the state of the economy and Malaysia’s business ties with China to the sales and service tax (SST) and the state of the MCA.
The Ayer Hitam MP says the MCA has a big role to play in bringing investments from China to Malaysia, using MCA Belt and Road Centre expertise to ease doing business in the country.
This included organising the World Association Presidents’ Conference last year, whose Dec 2 opening was officiated by both Deputy Prime Ministers, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. Other notable attendees included Hairol Ariffein Sahari, CEO of Halal Development Corporation Berhad; Chang Lih Kang, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister; Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister; and Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Premier of Sarawak.
The topic of elections also came up, with Dr Wee saying that the MCA is ready to contest in “strong forts” in upcoming state contests.
The following are excerpts from the interview.
Economic concerns
> Can you explain the role of the MCA within the Madani government?
Barisan Nasional is part of the unity government, but I believe I should play the role of offering checks and balances. I hope everyone can understand that just because I’m in the unity government, it doesn’t mean I’m a yes man.
Recently, I’ve faced some criticism from MPs within the government, but my main concern is the welfare of the people, so I will continue to speak up for them.
> You have strongly advocated for the current sales and service (SST) tax to be replaced with the goods and service tax (GST). Why is that?
As the MP for Ayer Hitam, I’ve pointed out in Parliament that the income threshold for the top 15% (T15) is set too low.
For instance, a couple living in the Klang Valley, with one working in Semenyih and the other in Klang, would likely need two cars and have housing costs to manage. If their combined salary is RM13,000 a month, if they are considered T15, half of the salary has to cover car and housing costs – what about their children’s education and healthcare expenses?
If “maha kaya” refers to a household income of RM25,000 to RM35,000 a month, then the family would have more leeway, even if you cut the fuel subsidy or add another 5% for expenses. This sets it apart from other middle-income families. Doing so could ease the burden on families earning RM10,000 a month.
(“Maha kaya”, or ultra rich, was mentioned by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim when he tabled Budget 2025 in October.)
> What issues do you have with the SST?
The SST’s scope is set to expand by May 1, which could lead to unexpected food price hikes due to the cascading effect. With SST, manufacturers set the price, and you don’t know how much tax they’re paying the government. In contrast, GST makes product pricing transparent, and businesses prefer GST because they can claim tax refunds, unlike SST.
> You have also mentioned concerns about phase three of the electronic invoicing, or e-invoicing, system set to begin on July 1, covering all revenue ranges. Can you elaborate?
I’ve suggested to the government that, like GST, businesses with an income below RM500,000 shouldn’t need e-invoicing.
Imagine a nasi lemak vendor having to provide an invoice just for buying cucumbers – it’s an issue that could get worse. Or when ordering 50 packed lunches, it seems unreasonable to ask a vendor for a receipt, which could cause trouble for both parties.
I’ve consistently advised that GST could solve these issues, as claiming tax refunds is straightforward with proper documentation. The GST software from 2014 already had a refund mechanism.
> You have repeatedly also brought up a need to re-examine the proposal to have foreign workers contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF). Why?
I’ve urged the government to drop its plan to make foreign workers contribute to the EPF. If employers have to contribute 12% to 13% for foreign workers, it becomes a burden.
Some MPs in the unity government support this, claiming it aligns with humanitarian principles. But look at Singapore, for instance. Isn’t Singapore a law-abiding country? Don’t they know international labour laws?
When I was studying for my Master’s at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore (from 1992 to 1994), I was offered the post of research assistant, and later teaching assistant. It was then compulsory for me and NTU to contribute 40% of my salary to the CPF (Central Provident Fund).
Subsequently, Singapore changed its policy and only made it compulsory for Singaporeans and people holding Singapore PR status to contribute to CPF. In 2024, CPF closed all accounts for foreigners.
My CPF account was closed because they didn’t want to support foreign workers in this way, so they exempted foreign workers from contributing to CPF.
Malaysia should consider this approach instead of going in the opposite direction. By requiring employers to contribute to foreign workers’ EPF, you’re adding another cost on top of the minimum wage increase from RM1,500 to RM1,700, plus the additional 13% for EPF. This only increases labour costs for businesses.
Further, electricity tariffs will rise nearly 15% in July. Businesses with bills of RM20,000 in June 2023 are now facing bills of RM30,000 (the first increment was 30% in July 2023; the second raise will be 15% in July 2025). Will they absorb this extra RM10,000 themselves? The government argues that only over 10% of people are affected, but businesses will likely pass these costs on to consumers.
> Some might say that you are picking out the flaws in government policies. Why do you do so?
I am elected by the people, it is my duty to look after their welfare. I worry these combined factors, as mentioned earlier, will trigger another wave of inflation.
I’m not trying to embarrass the government by advocating for GST over SST. I just believe the right decision should be made, putting the country’s interests first. Continuing with SST could lead to a dead end.
While reports back to government indicated GST is preferred, the government is sticking to SST. If GST is deemed better, why not take steps to bring it back?
When I raise these points in Parliament, it’s not for myself but for the people, because life’s tough for everyone nowadays.
MCA’s role is in providing checks and balances for the government, acting as the people’s voice.
For the people: What Dr Wee (red shirt, back to camera) wants to do is to make sure government policies will benefit the folks on the ground, such as grandma Yee Kaw Moi, 93. She never fails to seek her ‘grandson’ out whenever he visits Lam Lee New Village in Johor where she lives. — Photo provided
When the MCA president visits that state, he always makes time for 'Grandma' Yee in Yong Peng. — THOMAS YONG/The Star/Facebook/Dr Wee Ka Siong
Bringing Chinese investment to Malaysia
> On Dec 2 last year, the MCA presented the World Association Presidents’ Conference. What was the significance of that event?
The World Association Presidents’ Conference was a landmark event that significantly enhanced Malaysia’s visibility and understanding within the Chinese business community.
MCA organised it in a remarkably short timeframe, less than two months. The conference successfully attracted numerous first-time attendees, including potential investors from China.
> How will it boost investment?
Following the conference, many of the participants have maintained ties with Malaysia, with some making multiple visits to explore further investment opportunities across various states. This ongoing engagement signifies that the conference has met its primary objective, which is fostering strong business connections between Chinese companies and Malaysian enterprises.
> How can Malaysia keep the momentum from the conference going?
The event was a testament to the spirit of mutual understanding and collaboration among the attendees.
Over 400 Chinese business representatives participated, and the conference was broadcast live, capturing the attention of more than 500 media agencies worldwide. The live stream of the first day alone garnered 1.98 million views, underscoring MCA’s commitment to supporting local Chinese businesses and elevating the profiles of both MCA and Malaysia on the global stage.
The MCA Belt and Road Centre (MBrace) will continue to play a pivotal role in facilitating business interactions between the two nations, reinforcing MCA’s objective to serve as a robust bridge in economic relations.
The conference drew over 40 distinguished guests, including influential political figures from different political parties and business leaders from Malaysia.
In addition to the conference, a grand banquet was held to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations. This significant occasion left a profound impression as it celebrated the historic ties between the two nations.
Malaysia’s role as the first country to establish diplomatic relations with China is a point of pride, and the Chinese delegates particularly noted the absence of language barriers and cultural differences as a defining and positive aspect of Malaysia.
Boosting Chinese investments
> You were recently appointed as the Deputy Prime Minister’s investment advisor for the Chinese community. Can you tell us about your role?
When Dr Ahmad Zahid made this appointment, I felt that, as MCA president, I was already in a position to effectively serve the country and the people. I expressed to the Deputy Prime Minister that I did not require an official title; my role as MCA president is sufficient.
During the World Association Presidents’ Conference, I deliberately chose not to highlight my position, as our long-standing interactions with China have always been rooted in fostering genuine economic cooperation and friendship.
I am committed to being a bridge between the two nations, prioritising service over titles. As long as Malaysia requires my assistance, I am ready to contribute.
> Can you tell us about efforts to publicise halal certification during your trip to China?
During the Deputy Prime Minister’s official visit to China for investment discussions, he sought to address halal certification in every province he visited. He entrusted me to engage with my Chinese counterparts in their native language, understanding that nuances in language can significantly impact communication.
Halal certification is complex, requiring thorough comprehension of production lines and logistics, which I explained to the foreign enterprises.
> Why would companies in China would want to know about halal certification?
For businesses aiming to develop a halal supply chain, it is crucial to understand and adhere to all the relevant regulations. Successfully securing Malaysia’s halal certification greatly enhances a company’s supply chain value.
Although China’s manufacturing capabilities are robust, their familiarity with our halal certification regulations is limited. Therefore, collaboration with and support from Malaysian businesses are essential to tap into the US$5 trillion (RM22 trillion) halal market potential.
Whether assisting the Deputy Prime Minister or others, I am dedicated to serving as a connector and facilitator in these vital exchanges.
> What do you say to snide remarks criticising Malaysia’s orientation towards China as an important business partner?
We shouldn’t see Chinese companies coming to Malaysia as rivals.
They often don’t know our rules or how we do business, and they can’t easily talk with local officials. So they need to work with local companies, and we should view their investments as partnerships that benefit both sides.
When Chinese companies invest here and local businesses have shares, it reduces the impact on our local firms.
I trust that the International Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) carefully selects which Chinese investments to welcome, focusing on those with advanced technology and renewable energy. This can help boost the skills of our local businesses. Miti also makes sure that Chinese companies don’t misuse policies, like avoiding potential US tariffs on their goods.
On MCA
> Has the MCA evolved in terms of membership growth?
MCA aspires to inspire young people with positive values. Recently, many university students aged 18 to 19 have voluntarily joined the party, demonstrating a sense of mission, alignment with MCA’s principles, and a readiness to contribute.
MCA aims to play an influential role in guiding young individuals, starting from secondary school, by assisting them with educational decisions, encouraging skill acquisition, and preparing them for societal challenges, thereby broadening their perspectives.
> What strategies has the party implemented to attract and engage with young members?
For MCA to thrive, it must focus on the youth and attract more young people to join. While progress in recruiting young members has been slower than desired, this challenge is not unique to us; other parties face similar issues. I have encouraged MCA Youth to actively engage with young individuals, particularly those who automatically become voters at 18.
MCA seeks to garner support from the 18 to 30 age group despite the challenges posed by their commitments to education and starting families. To address this, MCA has enhanced its training mechanisms, equipping young members with the skills needed for leadership and responsibility.
> How will young members affect the party?
Our young members are often multilingual and have gained recognition by addressing public concerns and becoming influencers. The party holds high expectations for them, supported by a structured KPI mechanism.
MCA is committed to addressing issues that affect all Malaysians, not just a single community, as evident in my parliamentary and social media engagements. When interacting with the public, I frequently receive feedback that the issues I highlight resonate with their concerns.
Down on the ground: Dr Wee speaking to people about the issues that concern them ahead of the by-election in Mahkota, Johor, along with Barisan Nasional candidate Syed Hussien Syed Abdullah. — THOMAS YONG/The Star/Facebook/Dr Wee Ka Siong
Upcoming state elections
> Is the MCA ready for possibly early state elections in Sabah?
Barisan component parties will contest under one banner, but the details of cooperation are still under discussion.
The Sabah election presents a complex scenario.
Will the federal-level unity government’s cooperation model be used as a reference for Barisan and the unity government in Sabah for the upcoming state election?
It’s worth considering whether Warisan president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal and Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor will collaborate.
The political scene in Sabah is quite tricky because all the state parties are part of the unity government, which makes things complicated. Ideally, Barisan parties would team up and contest together, but it’s unclear if that will happen or if they might split.
Right now, everything is up in the air, so MCA is focusing on its own tasks, like deciding where and which seats to contest. If another party is open to working with MCA and offering us a seat, we could collaborate, but it needs to be genuine.
At this moment, it’s too early to give a clear answer to your question.
> Have you decided where MCA will contest in Sabah?
Sabah MCA has the right to decide its own strategy, including which seats to contest. Roger Yapp, the Sabah Youth Chief, suggested that we might use the MCA banner in Sabah, following what happened in the 2021 state election when Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS) used its own banner.
If we set our sights on a particular seat, we’ll work extra hard for it. Sabah MCA plans to contest in Kapayan, Elopura, Karamunting, and Likas in the upcoming state elections.
