KUALA LUMPUR: MCA must take charge of its own political course as there is no clear direction from Barisan Nasional on how the coalition should move in the next general election, says party secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon.
He noted that 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 lack clear direction, I believe MCA should take control of its future by setting its own course,” Chong said.
He expressed hope that this issue will 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.
He 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 the Barisan supreme council and its secretary-general,” he said while attending the AGM opening ceremony of MCA branches in the Selayang division.
Reflecting on the party’s absence in the six state elections in 2023, where Barisan aligned with Pakatan Harapan, Chong said the decision not to participate stemmed from the unsatisfactory outcome of 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.
“Later, during the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election – a traditional MCA seat – we were once again sidelined.
“Our members were left disheartened.
“Will 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 the 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 election 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 all Malaysians,” he said.
Tan added that it is time for MCA to take the initiative to control its trajectory based on the current political situation.
“Almost three years have passed since 2022, and the next general election is approaching. Barisan has not yet put forward a clear direction.
“As an independent and responsible party, MCA must prioritise its own survival and development and cannot continue to be passive,” he added.
