MCA denies rumours of quitting Barisan Nasional, saying it remains committed to BN principles and focused on improving livelihoods, the economy and education.
KUALA LUMPUR: MCA has dismissed speculation about the party quitting Barisan Nasional (BN), insisting that its focus remains on improving the lives of Malaysians rather than chasing headlines.
MCA Youth Information chief Neow Choo Seong said the question of leaving BN should not even arise as long as the coalition’s component parties remain committed to shared principles and constructive cooperation.
“As long as we can work together, discuss issues that benefit the nation, the debate about whether MCA should stay or leave is irrelevant,” he said in an exclusive interview with theSun recently.
Neow described repeated rumours about MCA quitting BN as provocative rhetoric rather than meaningful debate.
“Why should MCA leave when we are focused on a greater agenda – improving livelihoods, solving economic problems and addressing education issues? We need strength in a coalition, not fragmentation.”
Neow, who is also BN Youth communications director, stressed that MCA’s continued place in BN is conditional on principles being upheld, both within the coalition and the party itself.
“Only if BN loses its moral clarity and principles would we consider other options. As long as BN is intact, leadership is clear and core principles are upheld, this question should not even be asked.”
He acknowledged genuine concerns raised by MCA grassroots members, including during the party’s last AGM.
“These are real voices from MCA. They show concerns about whether all component parties are still on the same page.”
Neow cautioned against external narratives seeking to pit BN’s component parties against one another.
“There are people who want us to break, to separate and weaken ourselves. As a political party, we must learn from past experiences, stay grounded and focus on what the people need.”
On whether he still believes in the “BN spirit” amid changing political realities, the former diplomat said he does, pointing to the coalition’s historical contributions.
“I have seen BN’s success stories, from gaining independence to transforming Malaysia from a poor agricultural nation into an industrial one. This is the legacy of BN leadership.
“This is still the best formula but it must be strengthened and improved. We need more sincerity, clarity and most importantly, integrity.”
