A pro-Umno website has recalled how MCA and DAP appeared to join hands when an Umno minister called on the Malays to boycott Chinese traders who refused to reduce the prices of goods.

In a posting today, MYKMU.net argued that if the two parties could come together over an issue which affected the Chinese community, then Umno and PAS could also do the same on matters pertaining to Islam.

"When (Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister) Ismail Sabri Yaakub suggested the boycott, MCA and DAP sat on the same table to defend Chinese traders.

"At that time, MCA Youth chief Chong Sin Woon did not even care if DAP was an opponent," read the article.

Chong was one of the more vocal critics, stating that Ismail was not fit to be a minister. Ismail was eventually let off the hook .

The pro-Umno website said MCA had disregarded the calls for Chong to apologise for his "rude behaviour".

"Now when Kelantan Umno supports the hudud bill in Kelantan, why is MCA making noise?

"MCA can sit at the same table with DAP on Chinese matters but Umno is not allowed to be together with PAS on Islamic issues?" it asked.

'Win more seats before you talk'

If MCA "possessed a brain", MYKMU argued, the party would realise that the hudud bill in Kelantan is a political issue.

"Whether or not Umno supports it, PAS can still get the bill passed because they have two-thirds majority (in the state assembly).

"Similarly, even if it is brought to Parliament, the bill cannot be enforced without a two-thirds majority, so it is a political story though some Umno assemblypersons in Kelantan supported the bill due to religion. That is their right," it said.

Therefore, MYKMU said it was important for MCA not to meddle in the issue because it could only be resolved through politics and not by hurling brickbats at Umno.

It also pointed out that a party which fared badly in the general election should learn to keep its lips pursed.

Yesterday, MCA leader Gan Peng Sieu said if Umno backed the bill at the federal level, it could lead to the two parties severing ties.