MCA Youth today proposed that undergraduates at public institutions of higher learning be allowed to join political parties.   

Its chief, Dr Wee Ka Siong, said the movement had made such a proposal way back in 2000 and felt that legislation should be relaxed to enable the students to participate in politics, now that certain categories of teachers were being allowed to do so.   

"Students overseas have the Umno Club, MCA Club and possibly PAS Club. Some have asked how come students of private tertiary institutions are not prohibited by the Universities and University Colleges Act.  

"Perhaps a relaxation can be given for undergraduates in the second or third year who will be eligible to register as voters. As voters, they will be able to make a choice," he said after chairing a meeting of the MCA Youth executive committee in Kota Kinabalu.

Wee said BN Youth, generally, shared the view of MCA Youth and the matter would be brought to the attention of the government leadership for consideration.  

Replying to a question, he said a guideline could be issued as to the extent the undergraduates could be active in politics so as not to jeopardise their studies.

Wee said the issue could be manipulated by the opposition parties if the request by the undergraduates was ignored.

"The opposition can take advantage of the situation to spread their propaganda, by telling the students how come they can vote but not join political parties.

"As such, I feel the students should be given a choice. It's their choice whether they want to enter politics. This is at the discretion of the leaders but we will raise the matter as it is a request of the grassroots," he said.

‘Saman ekor’ causes problems

Wee also said that the "saman ekor" (postal summons) for traffic offences was also discussed at the meeting, and it was felt that it had caused much problem for the people.

"It is hoped that the matter will be better handled and the vehicles are not blacklisted," he said.

He also said that the government could consider allowing discounts or instalment payments for those who had summonses outstanding.

- Bernama