MCA deputy president Lim Ah Lek's reappearance on the political scene can be viewed as a way to unite and strengthen the divided party, its Youth secretary-general Liow Tiong Lai said.

Lim (photo) reportedly said earlier that he would consider becoming active in politics again if his involvement in the next general election election would make the ruling government Barisan Nasional more powerful and attract more Chinese Malaysians to support the coalition.

A former human resource minister and parliamentary representative of Bentong, Lim revealed in Monday's papers that he had received numerous suggestions from BN leaders including MCA leaders and members, urging him to re-enter the political arena.

Contacted yesterday for comment, Liow said he is optimistic of Lim's return and is glad that the latter is giving some thought to the matter.