MP SPEAKS | I find it intriguing that Wee Ka Siong felt compelled to issue a lengthy defensive response to my assertion in Mingguan Malaysia that “MCA has lost its direction” (MCA agak sesat).

This sentiment resonates widely within our society as a perception rooted in the leadership’s pursuit of power.

The belief that MCA has lost its direction is not merely a personal opinion but a reflection of public sentiment. This sentiment finds validation in the stark reality that MCA has faced defeat in four consecutive general elections since 2008, signalling a significant erosion of support, particularly within the Chinese community.

Presently, the party relies precariously on minimal backing from Umno voters, an indication of a compromised existence.

MCA’s casual and shameless alliance with PAS, once considered an arch-enemy, to form the Perikatan Nasional government after the Sheraton Move in 2020 stands in stark contradiction to its previous criticism of DAP’s cooperation with PAS within the Pakatan Rakyat state governments.

This abrupt shift raises questions about MCA’s principles, hinting at a desperate and weakened state.

The revelation that Ka Siong and Tanjong Piai MP Wee Jeck Seng clandestinely endorsed Muhyiddin Yassin for the prime minister’s position even before the 2022 general election further exemplifies MCA’s collaboration with PAS, revealing a blatant disregard for ethical standards.

PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang’s confirmation only solidifies this clandestine alliance, which Ka Siong has not refuted.

Ka Siong’s motives behind this covert action are transparent: a blatant pursuit of a cabinet position. His betrayal of BN illustrates an overwhelming fixation on official status and authority.

Such self-serving manoeuvres only serve to affirm my assertion that MCA has strayed from its political compass.

PAS’ repeated violations of our fundamental rights and liberties, coupled with their derogatory remarks towards Malaysians – such as Hadi’s comparison of people in revealing attire to animals –highlight a concerning disregard for basic freedoms.

In the face of a Kota Bahru incident where a woman was fined for wearing shorts, Ka Siong’s deliberate silence to defend her is a clear indication of his reluctance to challenge PAS, likely to preserve their amicable ties. This instance further accentuates MCA’s loss of direction.

Given Ka Siong’s alignment with PN rather than the coalition government, it would be more fitting for him to withdraw support from BN and openly embrace PN and PAS. This move would better reflect his political allegiance and priorities.

TERESA KOK is Seputeh MP and DAP vice-chairperson.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.