It is unfortunate that former information minister Zainuddin Maidin holds such opinions. In his time as a member of the cabinet, he had never raised such issues against MCA or any other BN component party.

His latest salvo against MCA will not only hurt MCA, but will also place Umno and other BN component parties at a disadvantage.

Zainuddin is also unaware that MCA's projects are not race-based but intended for all Malaysians. We keep in line with our party founder’s goal that “MCA’s motto is not for Chinese Malayans only, but for all Malayans”. Our party’s existing projects like the Tunku Abdul Rahman University College, Utar, 1MCA Medical Foundation, 1MCA Micro-Credit Scheme for Youth and others, have proven to benefit all races in Malaysia.

Referring to Zainuddin's remark regarding the closing of Chinese vernacular schools in Singapore by Lee Kuan Yew, MCA firmly believes that it is entirely within the rights of all Chonese Malaysians to have access to their mother tongue. As such, MCA is rightfully enforcing this, by defending Chinese education in its entirety.

Our partnership with all members of BN is strong, and this bond has weathered the various tests of time. Even in the dark days of the racial riots in 1969 and Reformasi in 1998, it was MCA which stood steadfastly with Umno and other BN component parties to reunite all races in a continuous effort of building our nation. This has resulted in numerous achievements and advancements that can be witnessed today.

MCA urges Zainuddin not to use MCA as his convenient whipping boy, especially when our nation is facing various challenges, including challenges our economy. Zainuddin's remarks regarding MCA’s supposed racism are regrettable. However, MCA believes that his remarks stem from a lack of understanding about MCA’s policies and history.

MCA hopes that Zainuddin does not misconstrue the fact that MCA, as a one-race party, adopts a one-race policy, as proven by the party’s track record.

ONG KA CHUAN is MCA secretary-general.