KUALA LUMPUR: MCA's current position in a rapidly changing political landscape is that it needs to enhance its value and win back public support, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
The MCA president also said that the party had consistently stood firm and adhered to its principles, while maintaining an open attitude.
"As long as there is consensus in political ideology and shared goals, with universal values as the bottom line, we can work towards the common goal of building a better Malaysia," he said in his speech at the party's 75th anniversary celebration at Wisma MCA here on Saturday (March 9).
The Ayer Hitam MP stressed that MCA was ready to cooperate with any party in any form as long as there was consensus.
Dr Wee highlighted the importance of strengthening MCA and Barisan Nasional (BN) as a key factor in stable political cooperation.
He stressed the need for MCA to become a valuable, powerful, and influential political party to secure favourable positions and conditions.
The primary focus, he said, was on winning back public support by intensively implementing plans formulated by the new leadership, enhancing party performance at all levels, and building a fresh and politically competent image.
Wee Ka Siong (fifth left) along with Mah Hang Soon and party leaders stand proudly as they celebrate the 75th anniversary. Joining the cake-cutting ceremony are Lim Ban Hong (from left), Wee Jeck Seng, Chong Sin Woon, MCA veteran, former MCA president Tan Sri Tan Koon Swan, former MCA deputy president Tan Sri Lim Ah Lek, and former vice-president Tan Sri Chor Chee Heung.— LOW BOON TAT/THE STAR
Dr Wee acknowledged the challenging economic environment and urged various committees, bureaus, and state liaison committees to play their roles in addressing the difficulties faced by the people and businesses.
He called on all elected party representatives, including MPs and assemblymen, to work harder to enhance the party's image and reliability.
As a member of the unity government, Dr Wee highlighted MCA's role in monitoring the government's performance and speaking out for the people, especially when government policies negatively impact them.
Dr Wee cited MCA's successful intervention in preventing the implementation of an 8% service tax on traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM), which would have significantly affected the Chinese community.
Meanwhile, Dr Wee acknowledged the current challenges facing Barisan, describing it as being at a "low ebb".
However, he asserted that this period presents a unique opportunity for introspection and a revitalisation of the spirit of Barisan.
"Today's political situation makes it even clearer that only the cooperation model and governance philosophy of Barisan is most suitable for Malaysia, a country of diverse races, religions, and cultures.
"Some political parties, which used to criticise Barisan harshly, are now praising Barisan to the skies; they used to disparage Umno, but now they are singing its praises every day," he said.
Dr Wee said there was a need to identify weaknesses and shortcomings while strengthening the cooperation mechanisms between component parties, and enhancing election machinery at all organisational levels in preparation for the next general election.
"All component parties and leaders of Barisan must prioritise the interests and future of Barisan, ensuring wins in the next general election and a return to the political mainstream," he added.
