SEREMBAN: The understanding Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional have for the Negri Sembilan election is not a merger of the two coalitions, says MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
"Each retains its own ideology, its stance and its role of providing checks and balances on each another.
"I want to make this clear – we are not forming any political party or political alliance," he said during a press conference at Wisma MCA here on Saturday (July 18).
He said the two coalitions were cooperating strategically in selected seats to avoid multi-cornered contests that could split votes, ensuring a stable and capable state government.
He said MCA's stand was to ensure the Chinese community, the plural society, vernacular education and religious freedom had representation and a voice in government.
"This cooperation is based on the people's interests, not unconditional support. MCA will oppose any policy that undermines the rights and interests of Malaysia's diverse communities," he said.
He added what the people need is not endless political bickering but a government able to resolve issues such as water supply, roads, jobs, floods, business matters and the rising cost of living.
Dr Wee said political fragmentation would only open up space for extremism.
"Barisan is the only party capable of uniting the middle ground, defending our plural society and building a stable government.
"Choose the stability of Barisan and defend the diversity of Negri Sembilan," he said.
Dr Wee revealed that the final decision on the electoral understanding was reached at about 1am on July 15 while he was in London for his daughter's wedding, with MCA secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon and Negri Sembilan MCA chairman Datuk Leaw Kok Chan representing him in talks with the top Barisan leadership.
He had briefed all prospective candidates before flying off on July 12.
"What is important is that we want to form a government. That is why Barisan is only contesting 25 seats – seats we believe we can win," he said, adding that the remaining seats would be left to Perikatan.
On the unexpected multi-cornered fights in several seats, Dr Wee said anyone eligible was free to contest in a democracy.
"We may be facing three, four or five-cornered fights. What we must do now is focus on the fierce contests expected over the next two weeks," he said.
Also present were Wanita MCA chief Datuk Wong You Fong, information chief Chan Quin Er, election preparation bureau deputy chairman Chuah Hock Guan and Sabah MCA leader Chin Kim Hiu.
