One vision: The crowd at MCA’s 76th anniversary celebration. — Low Lay Phon/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: MCA is set to fully capitalise on its strong ties with the Chinese government to help Malaysia benefit from China’s economic strength, promote growth and drive industrial upgrades, bringing prosperity to Malaysians, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
The MCA president said the ongoing US-China trade war and China’s domestic challenges have positioned Malaysia and other Asean nations as prime destinations for Chinese businesses seeking new opportunities.
“Now is the time for Malaysia to leverage its strong relationship with China and seize this opportunity to attract more Chinese investments,” he said during MCA’s 76th anniversary celebration at Wisma MCA here yesterday.
Dr Wee cited the 5th World Association Presidents’ Conference, held at Wisma MCA last December, as evidence of the party’s commitment to fostering economic collaboration.
“Many Chinese enterprises expressed keen interest in investing in Malaysia and expanding their businesses. These enterprises see MCA as a reliable and trustworthy partner,” he added.
Dr Wee also pointed to the re- election of Donald Trump as United States president as a factor reigniting trade protectionism, presenting both challenges and new opportunities for Malaysia.
Reflecting on Malaysia’s outlook for 2025, Dr Wee summarised it in eight Chinese words – “nei you wai huan, bu bu wei ying” (with internal strife and external threats, we need to navigate cautiously).
Domestically, Dr Wee addressed the challenges that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face as a result of a number of government policies, such as increases in the minimum wage, electronic invoicing and electricity tariffs.
“With so many simultaneous policy changes, SMEs are facing enormous challenges.
“The government is increasing taxes while cutting subsidies. Even fuel prices, highway tolls and electricity tariffs are now categorised into income-based tiers.
“The fundamental issue behind all these policies is simple: the government does not have enough money.”
To address these challenges, Dr Wee reaffirmed MCA’s stance on reinstating the Goods and Services Tax (GST).
“This is the only viable way to stabilise the national economy,” he said, citing the World Bank’s recommendation that Malaysia reinstate the GST.
He said the government “should not let pride cloud its judgment or go against global economic trends”.
About 2,000 veterans and members attended the party’s anniversary celebration.
It started with a flag-raising ceremony in front of Wisma MCA before everyone proceeded to the San Choon Hall.
An hour-long theatre performance that depicted Malaya’s struggle, MCA’s formation, challenges and successes over the decades captivated the audience.
Those present were party deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon and vice-presidents Datuk Seri Dr Wee Jeck Seng, Datuk Lim Ban Hong, Datuk Lawrence Low and Datuk Tan Teik Cheng.
Among the party veterans and former leaders present were Tan Sri Tan Koon Swan, Tan Sri Liow Tiong Lai, Tan Sri Lim Ah Lek, Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy, Tan Sri Ong Ka Chuan, Tan Sri Wong Foon Meng, Tan Sri Fong Chan Onn, Datuk Yap Pian Hon, Tan Sri Kuan Peng Chin @ Kuan Peng Soon, Datuk Dr Hou Kok Chung and Datuk Seri Yew Teong Look.
