Working together: Ong (centre) speaking at the dialogue with local Chinese associations in Kuala Terengganu. — Photo taken from Terengganu MCA State Liaison Committee’s Facebook page
KUALA TERENGGANU: An action committee comprising various Chinese associations and societies will be set up to bridge effective communications between the community and the government, says Terengganu MCA chairman Dr Monna Ong Siew Siew.
She said the committee would focus on issues faced by the Chinese community, conduct discussions, and carry out research to find solutions together.
It would also voice the concerns of the people in a democratic and civilised manner, advocating for the rights and interests of the community when dealing with the government, be it at the local, state or federal level.
Ong said the idea of setting up the committee came following a recent successful dialogue session between the new state MCA leadership and various Chinese groups.
She said the committee members would be representatives of Chinese organisations from eight districts in the state.
“Discussions to explore in detail the structure and roles... will be held in the next round of dialogue sessions.
“MCA will cooperate... within the action committee, which prioritises issues involving the people’s livelihood while avoiding confrontation and political struggles,” she added.
Detailing the March 22 dialogue, Ong said more than 100 leaders and representatives from over 40 Chinese organisations attended the event.
Terengganu Chinese Assembly Hall president Ong Thian Chin said the committee could also serve as a platform to brainstorm, plan strategies, and unite the Chinese groups for the benefit of the community.
He commended the state MCA for taking care of the people and defending the rights of the community.
Citing the relocation of the Kampung Tiong market issue as an example, he praised the political party for successfully helping the traders obtain a transfer allowance and getting an extension to allow the people more time to move out.
Terengganu Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry vice-president Vincent Ng Thian Hock has urged the state business community, which is mostly micro, small and medium enterprises, to make early preparations for the e-invoice system scheduled for next year.
He suggested that training courses and talks be conducted for the businessmen to help them transform and adapt to the digitalisation era.
Terengganu Chin Kang Association president Toh Seng Key pointed out the need for an effective communication channel between the people and government to address issues concerning the Chinese community.
“With this committee and through dialogue sessions with MCA, I believe consensus could be reached to forge closer ties between both sides,” he added.
