KUALA LUMPUR: Everyone must continue to play a role in building a more prosperous and stable Malaysia amid an increasingly diverse society, says MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
On MCA’s part, he said the party will continue to do its part in nation-building.
“We have consistently collaborated with Chinese community leaders over the decades, regardless of our position in government.
“In this multiracial and multicultural country, MCA has served in different roles – from being in government, to the opposition, and now once again as part of the ruling coalition. Throughout this journey, we have continued to act as a check and balance,” he said.
Dr Wee was speaking at MCA’s Chinese New Year luncheon with party veterans and leaders of Chinese guilds and associations yesterday.
He said MCA, founded on Feb 27, 1949, carried the aspirations of early Chinese pioneers who sought to contribute meaningfully to both the community and the nation.
“When challenges arise, we choose to face them together. Managing a diverse society is never easy, but we want to see this country continue to prosper,” he added.
Looking ahead to the Lunar New Year, Dr Wee expressed optimism for stronger economic conditions.
“In this Year of the Horse, we hope the ringgit will remain strong, the economy will continue to improve and all sectors can grow. For the rakyat, political stability and economic development remain the two key concerns,” he said.
He also announced that MCA will hold its Chinese New Year open house on the first day of the Lunar New Year at Dewan San Choon, Wisma MCA, on Feb 17.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail are expected to attend.
“As always, MCA’s doors will be open. Besides the Prime Minister and his wife, several political and business leaders have also been invited,” Dr Wee said.
Anwar attended MCA’s Chinese New Year open house in 2023 and 2024 but was unable to attend last year’s celebration due to an official engagement in Sabah.
In keeping with tradition, the open house will also be attended by government leaders, Barisan Nasional component party leaders, MCA veterans, business figures, Chinese community leaders and foreign diplomats.
The event, which is open to the public, has over the years attracted multiracial crowds as well as foreigners keen to soak in the festive atmosphere at Wisma MCA.
Also present at the luncheon were MCA veterans Tan Sri Tan Koon Swan, Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy, Tan Sri Liow Tiong Lai and Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon; as well as Chinese community leaders Tan Sri Koo Yuen Kim, Federation of Seven Clan Associations chairperson Leong Siew Kam, former Jiao Zong president Datuk Ong Chiow Chuen, former Hua Zong president Tan Sri Pheng Yin Huah and UTAR pro-chancellor Tan Sri Wong See Wah.
