KUALA LUMPUR: MCA will not accept leaders who have defected after claims of frequent party hopping occurring in recent times, says party president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
“Recently, we have seen several instances of party-hopping in the political arena. A certain opposition party has been recruiting young leaders, particularly those who feel sidelined at the local level. I believe such attempts are still ongoing,” revealed Dr Wee during MCA 76th anniversary celebration at Wisma MCA on Saturday (March 1).
He also said that MCA will not persuade those who succumb to the lure of money and positions to stay, particularly those who have defected to a certain opposition party in hopes of becoming election candidates.
Dr Wee also said that many of those targeted are disgruntled figures at the grassroots level.
“When MCA divisions select potential election candidates, only one person can be chosen. Naturally, some members will feel disappointed when they are not picked. Certain individuals take advantage of this disappointment, fuelling their resentment and luring them to switch parties,” he said.
Dr Wee said there were allegations that those who switched parties had been offered lucrative incentives, whether in the form of salaries, constituency service funds, or financial support for activities, along with the promise of being made an election candidate.
“Should MCA use money to keep them? First of all, we don’t have the funds to do so. But more importantly, if someone lacks loyalty and cannot resist temptation, no amount of money will keep them in the party,” he added.
However, Dr Wee expressed his full confidence in the vast majority of MCA members, whom he described as the backbone of the party and the driving force behind its progress. He emphasised that these members see MCA as their true political home, not something to abandon at the first sign of difficulty.
“As for those who have jumped ship, I won’t resort to insults. I believe the world is fair—every choice comes with consequences. I can only wish them luck.
“To our young MCA leaders, remember that you have a duty and a mission. Do not become opportunists who chase short-term personal gains. No matter how tempting the offers, we must stand firm in our principles and beliefs,” he said.
