An MCA Youth leader has called on all parties to respect the BN component’s decision to not campaign for a Pakatan Harapan candidate in the upcoming Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election.
MCA Youth information chief Neow Choo Seong also defended his party’s decision, arguing there were remarks made by DAP leaders as a partner in government that had hurt the feelings of their grassroots.
“After insulting us with various hurtful words, does the MCA grassroots want to help DAP defend the Kuala Kubu Baharu seat?” he asked.
Among others, Neow cited remarks by DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke and DAP vice-chairperson Teresa Kok, both of whom had openly expressed their dislike for MCA even after being partners in the administration.
“The MCA is confident that if the tables are turned, certainly it would prompt the same reaction.
“None will accept their own party’s dignity to be trampled upon by any other party, especially not one with intentions to replace them unless they are weak and unable to fight,” said Neow.
Further, Neow argued that MCA’s decision to only campaign for a BN candidate is a sign of the party’s commitment towards strengthening the coalition, particularly in Selangor.
“Our rise and fall are with BN. Even as an opposition, MCA and MIC did not budge and left BN.
“That is evidence of our solidarity although the spirit is not appreciated by certain Umno leaders who labelled us as a ‘burden’ (biawak hidup),” he said.
“We have no qualms if any party wants to help the DAP campaign. Anyone has the right to raise the DAP’s flag and carry it anywhere.
“But if MCA respects the rights of other parties - then reciprocate and also respect our rights to not campaign unless for a BN candidate,” he stressed.
BN chairperson and Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, together with other Umno leaders including deputy president Mohamad Hasan, Umno vice-president Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail and secretary-general Zambry Abdul Kadir, has separately urged component parties to reconsider the boycott decision and work together for a victory against PN.
Aside from MCA, MIC has also made a similar stand to only campaign for a BN candidate.
However, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is also Pakatan Harapan chairperson, has since refuted reports on MIC’s decision.
The Kuala Kubu Baharu state seat fell vacant following the death of its DAP incumbent Lee Kee Hiong on March 21.
Polling is slated to take place on May 11, while nomination day falls on April 27 and advance polling is on May 7. - Mkini
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