MCA vice-president Liow Tiong Lai today dismissed speculation that he is to be named to fill the post of party deputy president.

The health minister told reporters after the 52nd Merdeka Day celebration at Parliament Square here that the idea never crossed his mind.

liow tiong lai pc 250609 liow tiong lai The party's No 2 post fell vacant after Dr Chua Soi Lek was sacked from the party last Wednesday over his sex scandal.

Following Dr Chua's expulsion, speculation has been rife that Liow would replace him.

Major Chinese media had also speculated that party president Ong Tee Keat might hand over the party leadership to Liow because of the Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ) controversy.

Liow said the issue of position was not important and reiterated that party members must stay united in facing the party's internal crisis.

"The important thing is the party's strength, and we must remain united to resolve this problem swiftly," he said.

- Bernama