KUALA LUMPUR: The MCA is very thankful to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak for agreeing to a RM30mil grant for the development of Chinese national-type secondary schools, said party secretary-general Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha.

"The Prime Minister gave an inspiring speech. It was very honest and his message is clear as what he said was from his heart," he added, referring to Najib's speech at the MCA annual general assembly here Sunday.

MCA Youth chief Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong said the the Prime Minister had pinpointed the top desires of the Chinese community and outlined measures to achieve them.

He said that Najib's speech showed that Barisan Nasional was committed towards helping the Chinese, especially in terms of economic growth and education.

He also pointed out that despite the Opposition's various allegations about MCA, it was clear that the party had done a lot of work for the community.

Earlier in his presidential address, MCA chief Datuk Seri Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek had appealed to the Prime Minister for assistance for these schools, saying there was currently no allocation for them.

MCA vice-president Datuk Donald Lim said Barisan under Najib's leadership had worked hard to address many issues of concern, including reducing corruption through its Government Transformation Programme.

"The Government has taken steps through the GTP, and we have seen changes and hope they will be continued. The Chinese view economic issues and education as very important, and they want just and fair governance, which I think is very correct," he said.

Umno secretary-general Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor said he was impressed with the gusto shown by MCA during the assembly.

"The MCA spirit has changed. The party has a more united and determined front to bring victory to Barisan Nasional.

"I would like to say syabas (well done) to MCA," he said when met Najib's speech.

MIC president Datuk Seri G. Palanivel, who attended the assembly's opening, said Najib had made a very inspiring speech.

"This is meant to motivate the Chinese to back Barisan Nasional in the coming general election," he said.

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