MCA AGM: Time not right for comprehensive cooperation with DAP, says Dr Mah

KUALA LUMPUR: It is not the right time for comprehensive cooperation between MCA and DAP and there is no need for it, says Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon.

However, the MCA deputy president said that both parties could still maintain a certain level of cooperation on specific issues to safeguard the rights and interests of the Chinese communities if DAP agrees with MCA's principles and struggles.

"MCA has been the target of attacks and smears by DAP for decades and the accumulation of negative sentiments cannot be easily dismissed.

"Even today, when in power, some DAP leaders still treat MCA as a punching bag, placing blame on the party for their own shortcomings.

"That's why MCA members react negatively to the cooperation between MCA and DAP," he told a press conference after opening MCA Youth's 50th annual general meeting at Wisma MCA here on Saturday (Oct 21).

Dr Mah also said that MCA's political principles and objectives differed from those of DAP.

"MCA does not compromise when it comes to safeguarding the Chinese community's rights and interests.

"We do not resort to finding excuses or justifications to hold onto positions or power," he added

Citing the example of Vision Schools or Sekolah Wawasan, he said DAP's flip-flop stance when it was in Opposition was a huge contrast to when it was in power.

"As for MCA, our stance has remained the same - we objected to such schools because we were clear that it would change the essence of Chinese primary schools.

"MCA will never allow this to happen," he said.

"Some say that 'politics is the art of the possible', like DAP, which previously had heavily criticised Umno as being corrupt, but was now open to working with it.

"DAP executes this 'art' well, but MCA can't do it," he said, adding that it was important for MCA to provide checks and balances for the unity government.

To a question, Dr Mah said MCA would also engage in discussions about the trend of Malaysian youths' growing support for Perikatan Nasional.

"Every political party is concerned about this, which directly impacts the party's existence and our future work and performance," he said.

In his speech, Dr Mah said MCA Youth must demonstrate its vigour by daring to speak out and ask questions when it came to governance and national policies.

As the party's backbone and vanguard, he said MCA Youth members must first be positive about their objectives and role in the party.

"Many say that as the youth organisation of a political party, we should be fearless and outspoken.

"I believe that when it comes to unreasonable national policies and inadequate governance, MCA Youth should demonstrate the vigour of the youth, daring to challenge and speak out," he said.

With the many talents from various fields within MCA Youth, Dr Mah called on them to engage in professional political discussions, not only to supervise the government's policies but also to raise mature and constructive suggestions, reflecting the high quality of MCA Youth.

He said that many have also questioned and argued that MCA, as a member of the unity government, should not question the government's policies.

"However, they have forgotten that over the past 60 years, during the era of Barisan Nasional's governance, MCA had openly opposed and protested against unreasonable and unfair policies.

"Those who criticise MCA should take a look at the history of the party and observe its consistent approach to engaging in political discourse," he said.

Dr Mah also said MCA Youth is an arena for learning and honing for all members, as it is the cradle for future MCA leaders.

"Most of the central leaders of MCA have undergone political grooming in MCA Youth, establishing a solid belief in the struggle of MCA and steadily progressing to become leaders.

"So, maintain a strong heart and a healthy physique, allowing yourself to grow and prepare for bigger challenges," he said.