'Include Tee Keat and non-politicians in cabinet'

Who among the current crop of Chinese leaders would best be able to represent the community?

Following MCA's poor showing in the recent general election, the community is in dire need of leaders able to rise to the challenge and become the voice of the community at the national level.

Though many from within and outside the party feel that current deputy president Liow Tiong Lai ( right ) would be able to shoulder the burden, there are concerns as to whether he would be able to do it alone.

Rumours have been rife that in recognition of this dilemma, Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak may just turn to former MCA president Ong Tee Keat to once again jump into the ring - this time as a senator - and help garner support.

Though sidelined for certain reasons, Ong is still seen as a credible and formidable figure who commands a certain degree of respect from the community.

"What is important here is that Ong is liked by the community, which was clearly evident from the support he garnered in the Pandan constituency. With this strong community support, he will be able to play his role in uniting the people.

"Ong is among those who have demonstrated an ability to place the people's interests at heart and work relentlessly for them," said a party veteran.

By offering Ong a senatorship, he would be able to work from the grassroots level to help rebuild the community's confidence.

"Though this process of rebuilding may take more than five years, it will be a strong start. Ong - at the moment - remains the best bet," said the insider.

When contacted, politicians from both BN and the opposition agreed that from the fold, Ong has the best chance of reaching out to the people.

One BN leader, who declined to be named, said it was very likely that Ong would be made a senator.

"Look around... who else does MCA have? Liow will need all the help he can get and Ong is the only one who still commands respect in the community," he said.

'Yew the people's favourite'

Another name being touted as a people's favourite is Wangsa Maju MCA division chief Yew Teong Look who - although considered winnable - was also not among the candidates in the recent election.

Yew is another stalwart who commands strong support, which was clearly demonstrated in the tremendous backing he received from his division and constituents before the candidacy was named.

Both Ong and Yew ( right ) have been singled out by party veterans who feel that these two should be given some role in helping to strengthen and unite the community.

"All hope is not lost. The community is still very receptive to good leaders and I am sure that names like Ong and Yew will appeal to them.

"However, any move for Ong to take up a government position will put him in a quandary, as MCA has said that its members will not be taking up positions. He will be going against his party if he accepts, so how he is going to juggle this will be interesting," the veteran said.

On another note, Prof Dr Chin Yew Sin - who was appointed by Najib to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) consultation and corruption prevention panel - has also been touted as someone with the potential and capability to play a formidable role.

Apart from his involvement in numerous NGOs, he also possesses the experience and education needed for such a position.

"What the community needs now is a role model. Someone they can look up to and respect... not merely a politician, but a genuine leader," said the party veteran.

Another frontrunner for a potential senatorship is former deputy higher education minister Saifuddin Abdullah, who - despite losing in the recent election - is someone well-liked and respected by all races.

Saifuddin is regarded as one of the most sensible, knowledgeable and credible politicians who possesses strong leadership qualities.

"He is someone who more than deserves to be part of the government. It would be a loss if someone with his capabilities and calibre is excluded," noted a BN leader.

- The Malay Mail