Chan reduced to tears midway through speech

KUALA LUMPUR: MCA deputy president Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy was in tears when he gave his speech at the party's special briefing to its grassroots leaders at Wisma MCA.

Chan became emotional and could not continue his speech midway, when he touched on the latest development of party issues.

Delegates said he turned emotional when he talked about MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting’s decision not to nominate himself for a government post, and about certain quarters that blamed Ong for losses in the elections.

He pointed out that Ong was a very good president with a sound track record.

Chan also noted that under Ong, more new Chinese schools had been built or relocated.

Grassroots leaders clapped to give support and encouragement to Chan, who then continued his speech, which lasted for 20 minutes.

When speaking to reporters after the briefing, Chan said: “I am very sad but I will be strong and work with party leaders for the MCA and the community.”

The two-hour briefing, attended by more than 700 party grassroots leaders and central committee members, ended at 4pm.

The briefing touched on the party's future direction and vision, as well as immediate plans after the losses in the general election.

Ong, who was touched by Chan’s speech, was given a standing ovation after his own speech.