KUALA LUMPUR: MCA’s loyalty to Barisan Nasional is unquestionable, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
The MCA president emphasised the historic alliance between Umno and MCA, which formed Parti Perikatan or the Alliance Party prior to the nation achieving independence.
“This is not a question to ask. This is the spirit of Perikatan up till today.
“Of course, the party also has to adapt to meet the needs of the people and we need to do some calibration there,” he told reporters after attending the launch of Umno’s annual general assembly here yesterday.
In stressing MCA’s commitment to the coalition, the Ayer Hitam MP also called on Barisan component parties to strengthen their positions.
“Let’s look after our family. It’s Barisan first as we’ve always contested under the Barisan ticket.
“We’ve gone through so many scenarios over the years. What’s important is to uphold democracy and know that our responsibility to the people matters most,” Dr Wee said.
He highlighted the collaborative approach between Umno and MCA, stating that issues were discussed collectively between the parties.
“We have never discussed them openly. Rather, it is a heart-to-heart between parties. This is good as we will know how they feel as well.
“What’s important is to prioritise what we can do for the people and country,” he said.
Regarding the atmosphere at the Umno general assembly, Dr Wee noted a strong sense of unity following Barisan’s victory in the Nenggiri by-election.
“The win with a larger majority has injected a significant boost in motivation.
“We aim to maintain this momentum with the upcoming Makhota by-election,” he said.
Reflecting on Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s address at the assembly, Dr Wee praised the key points made, noting that they would energise the grassroots.
“The Barisan spirit was strongly felt at the assembly. Empowering Barisan is our primary goal,” he said.
Dr Wee also welcomed Ahmad Zahid’s commitment to using Barisan’s scale logo in the next general election.
“We have been in the government for a long time and gone through hard times together.
“There is the Mahkota by-election next and more, and it is a challenge that must be tackled by Barisan as a whole.
“Barisan, with its vast experience through the decades, can face any challenges,” he said.