One mission, one voice: Dr Wee (centre) together with (from right) Tan, Chong, Dr Mah, Jeck Seng and state leaders at the launch of the Federal Territories and Putrajaya MCA state convention at Wisma MCA.
KUALA LUMPUR: MCA has outlined an ambitious plan to revitalise its ageing membership, calling for more concerted efforts to recruit and nurture young and future leaders.
Its president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong stressed the importance of focusing on younger generations and highlighted the crucial roles of Selangor, the Federal Territory, and Putrajaya MCA in these rejuvenation efforts.
“Selangor must not be absent in the effort to rejuvenate the party. I said the same thing to the Federal Territory MCA. You all have a huge responsibility,” he said when opening the Federal Territory and Putrajaya MCA conventions at Wisma MCA here yesterday.
In his opening speech, Dr Wee highlighted the vital role of youth in politics, especially with the implementation of Undi18, which has expanded voting rights to younger voters.
“Strong support from young people could potentially translate into votes, helping the party achieve victory in elections.
“Their participation will ensure that the party remains active and relevant in the national political arena,” he said, noting that the Wanita and Youth wings share the responsibility of garnering support from both young people and women.
Also present at the conventions were MCA deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon, vice-presidents Datuk Tan Teik Cheng, Datuk Seri Dr Wee Jeck Seng and Datuk Lawrence Low, national Wanita chief Wong You Fong and national Youth chief Ling Tian Soon.
Party veterans Datuk Yap Pian Hon, Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun, Datuk Seri Ch’ng Toh Eng and Datuk Tang See Hang were in attendance as well.
Later, when addressing the Selangor MCA convention, Dr Wee pointed out the party’s ageing membership, revealing that only 6% of members are under 40, with even fewer between 30 and 40 years old.
“To attract the younger generation, we must actively engage with them through secondary and tertiary education and guide them in their careers post-graduation,” he said.
He suggested organising events like esports competitions to connect with younger demographics and stay aligned with current trends.
“A recent esports event here was packed with youngsters. If we can have something similar, we will be able to reach and connect with the youth more effectively,” added Dr Wee.
Dr Wee also called for MCA leaders to be more attuned to issues affecting women, as they increasingly contribute to various fields and represent a larger portion of the population.
Regarding preparations for the next general election, Dr Wee stressed the need for readiness as politics is unpredictable.
“Anything can happen in politics. We have seen many political outcomes, some not as desired. But we must be ready to handle any situation.”
He also urged Selangor MCA to develop a strategic plan and start vetting potential candidates to ensure effective participation in upcoming elections.
“Selangor MCA must strategise for a breakthrough. While the current political landscape may differ, voters still hope that MCA will engage with them to earn their support.
“That’s why we must be proactive in approaching voters and addressing community issues, as there are still many opportunities for the party to serve the people,” he said.
In his speech, Jeck Seng called for a division representative to contest a Chinese-majority seat in the next general election.
“We have not won any seats in the Federal Territory for the past 16 years. MCA must start here to restore its past glory and rebuild its political influence,” said the Federal Territory and Putrajaya MCA chairman.
Jeck Seng also introduced the “10-year Plan, 5-year Breakthrough” strategy to secure at least 91% support from Chinese voters, as the Federal Territory has a predominantly Chinese electorate.
Meanwhile, Low, as the Selangor MCA chairman, emphasised the need for strengthening internal structures and processes, as recent by-elections have shown a “change of heart of the people” amid the shifting political landscape.
Citing examples of regime change like in France and Thailand, Low claimed the people can now see Barisan Nasional in a better light, with some even missing the days of Barisan rule.
Low also outlined a “3M” strategy: Mission, Mobilisation and Method, to position the party for success.
