Former MCA president Ong Ka Ting today sought to deflect criticism by denying that he was the party saviour as dubbed by some quarters following his decision to contest the top post again in the party election this Sunday.

"I refute this. MCA is still strong, so do not make such a claim," he told reporters after meeting a delegation from Penang MCA in Butterworth today.

mca re-election nomination 220310 ong ka ting 04 He was earlier asked to comment on the remark made by former MCA deputy president Dr Chua Soi Lek that he (Ong) was MCA's saviour by going again for the party president post.

Ong said the decision to contest the top post was made following requests from the grassroots who wanted him to be active again in the party.

Asked on the support for him in Penang, Ong said it was positive and encouraging.

"Initially, some people said I didn't have much support here but after meeting them (Penang MCA leaders and members), I find that support for me is increasing.

"I have also received several SMSes stating their support for me. I had led the party before, so I am confident there is good support for me."

Ong said support for him increased after he held sessions to explain his manifesto, vision and mission to lead the MCA again in the interest of the party and Chinese community.

"I also believe that the 1Malaysia concept introduced by Prime Minister Najib Razak will be more successful if the Chinese community leaders are united and work together," he said.

- Bernama