MCA party members have been warned that stern disciplinary action will be taken against them for tarnishing the party's name by their open criticism.

The decision was made by the party's presidential council which held a five-hour meeting at the party headquarters in Kuala Lumpur today, chaired by party president Ong Tee Keat.

Talking to reporters after the meeting, party secretary-general Wong Foon Meng said the decision to punish criticising members was made as open rebukes by party leaders were on the rise and had put the party in a bad light.

"There are a lot of ways and proper channels for these views and suggestions to be made, instead of openly criticising (the party and the leaders). This can have a negative impact on the party," said Wong.

Wong added that the party was open to any form of criticism as long as it was constructive.

"Suggestions are welcome... (but) members must also adhere to guidelines as this (criticism) has adverse effects to the party (and) needs to be dealt with by the disciplinary board." he said.

Independent board

He also stated that members who wished to express their views or give constructive criticism could do so by writing or bring up the matters personally with party leaders.

"Any criticism must be constructive and should not spoil the party's image." he continued. This new ruling will be implemented immediately.

Wong also said that the decision to monitor the views of party members was taken as the disciplinary board has noted a rise in such negative statements lately.

However he reassured that the disciplinary board would handle the cases independently, and without being seen to be persecuting anybody. He also said punishments on party members would depend on the board.

"It may involve suspension, depending on how severe a case is," Wong said.

Missing president and deputy

When questioned on the absence of party president Ong and deputy president Chua Soi Lek at the press conference, Youth chief Wee Ka Siong said that the duo had other matters to settle.

In regards to DAP leader Lim Kit Siang lodging a police report on behalf of Ong over the latter's safety, Wong stated that the issue wasn't discussed at the meeting.

Other issues brought up at the meeting included new methods of admission for party members and how the direct election of the party president would be implemented.

"However, we will further discuss these matters before making a final decision," concluded Wong.