Azmin: PAS' call for MCA, MIC to join PN a positive move

Perikatan Nasional secretary-general Azmin Ali has described a reported offer for BN components MCA and MIC to join the opposition pact as a “positive development” towards the next 16th general election.

Azmin said PN welcomes any political party or individual who embraces the coalition’s ideals and struggle “to correct the worsening situation in the country.”

“With the combined experience and knowledge of parties, particularly MCA and MIC, this can further strengthen public support for PN as well as for PN’s cooperation with other parties in political collaborations ahead of the coming election.

“This is a positive development, and we welcome all parties to prioritise the interests of the nation and the people,” the Bersatu secretary-general said during a press conference at his party’s headquarters in Petaling Jaya.

Amid mounting resentment in MIC and MCA, PAS deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man on Sunday reportedly invited the two sidelined BN parties to join forces with PN, noting their disappointment at being left without representation in the government.

Tuan Ibrahim’s call came on the heels of resolutions by at least two state MIC chapters to quit BN, citing frustration at being sidelined.

Earlier today, Astro Awani quoted BN chairperson Ahmad Zahid Hamidi describing PAS’ invitation to MIC and MCA as an attempt to lure BN component parties with vague offers.

The Umno president also described Tuan Ibrahim’s offer as a personal view and not PN’s official stance.

“I know there are efforts by them to entice our BN component partners with offers that do not necessarily promise any beneficial outcome for them,” said the deputy prime minister after attending the Rural and Regional Development Ministry’s monthly assembly in Putrajaya.

According to Astro Awani, MIC is expected to decide its political direction after its annual general assembly in October.

'Not a secret affair': MIC confirms informal talks with PN

'Stay or leave': MCA urged to decide on 'empty shell' BN

'Yes, president Wee, but voters will decide MCA's fate,' says Ti

Cracks in 'unity'? MIC signals possible realignment