A PKR lawmaker today alleged that MCA is "forcing" Chinese students from Tunku Abdul Rahman University College (TAR UC) to attend a patriotic rally organised by the party tomorrow.
The university college has made it compulsory for students to attend the event, which will be officiated by Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, claimed Selayang MP William Leong.
MCA will reportedly hold a rally dubbed the "Malaysian Chinese Patriotic Rally" at the Putra World Trade Centre, where a 10,000-strong crowd is expected.
"How many of the attendees are being forced to attend? The crowd may not genuinely support MCA," Leong said in a press conference at his service centre.
The letter dated Sept 6 issued by the university college stated: "Students of TAR UC are invited to attend the event. As such, it is compulsory for all the Chinese class reps, assistant class reps, scholars and representatives of SRC (students representative council) to attend the event as it is going to be conducted mainly in the Chinese language."
Malaysiakini has attempted to contact TAR UC head of centre Yeoh Hock Seng and MCA secretary general Ong Ka Chuan for comment.
Meanwhile, MCA publicity spokesperson Ti Lian Ker said the event is apolitical and not meant to be a show of support by the Chinese community for MCA or BN.
"This is a patriotic rally initiated by MCA. It is about nationalism, patriotism and bringing the Chinese forward to show our patriotism, so no politician will continue to question our patriotism. Even Dr Mahathir Mohamad questioned our patriotism," he said when contacted.
"All NGOs and institutions are welcome to participate in the spirit of patriotism. As for the letter, (the media) should refer the matter to the TAR UC.
"TAR UC did not make it compulsory for all students to attend. So maybe they want to get their top student leaders to get involved in this meaningful national event," he added.
Ti said Leong should not be overly worried about the Chinese community coming forward to show their patriotism.
"It is an overreaction on their part," he added.
[More to follow]
-Mkini
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