KUALA LUMPUR: MCA must take charge of its political course as there is no clear direction from Barisan Nasional on how the coalition should move in the coming general election, says Datuk Chong Sin Woon.
The MCA secretary-general said the party has always remained a steadfast pillar within the coalition despite numerous challenges in the past few years.
"We have given Barisan more than two years. If it continues to show a lack of clear direction, I believe MCA should take control of its future by setting its own course," Chong said.
He expressed hope that the issue would be seriously discussed at the party’s annual meeting at the division-level in June with feedback from the grassroots to be submitted to the central leadership for further deliberation.
Chong also urged party delegates to voice their views on MCA’s future direction and potential electoral alliances during the national party convention at the end of the year.
"We’ve done our best to express our concerns from issuing numerous statements to raising our views directly at meetings with Barisan's Supreme Council and its secretary-general," he said at the annual general meeting of branches in the Selayang MCA division recently.
Reflecting on the party’s absence in the six state elections where Barisan aligned with Pakatan Harapan, Chong said the decision not to participate stemmed from the unsatisfactory outcome of several rounds of negotiations.
The issue, he added, had deeply disappointed many members.
"In the past, we contested in 14 states. This time, we had none.
"During the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election — a traditional MCA seat — we were once again sidelined. Our members were left disheartened.
"Should we continue under the unity government framework, go it alone or seek other alliances? There has been no clear guidance. Our members are growing frustrated," he said.
Chong said starting this year, Sabah, Melaka and Johor will hold their respective state elections and the next general election is due in 2027.
"Time is running out. We cannot afford to keep our members in the dark. The central leadership must set a clear direction," he stressed, adding that the party remains open to all constructive opinions and suggestions.
Party vice-president Datuk Tan Teik Cheng said MCA has shouldered many responsibilities for the development of the country and the protection of ethnic rights.
"MCA has fought side by side with Barisan coalition partners for decades to defend the rights of all races under the Constitution.
"We did this based on the consensus and common values of moderation and diversity.
"Until the defeat of Barisan (in the general elections of 2018 and 2022), MCA's first option was to advance and retreat together with our coalition partners, to work together to formulate reforms and directions for progress, and win back the support of the people," he said.
Tan added that it is time for MCA to take the initiative to control its future direction based on the current political situation.
"The next general election is approaching but Barisan has not yet put forward a clear direction.
"As an independent and responsible party, MCA must prioritise its survival and development and must not remain passive," he said.
