MCA: Changing of the guard

analysis One quote in politics that is often repeated but rarely practised is, ‘Aim for the heart, not the head’.

Hence, it is not ironical that MCA president Ong Ka Ting’s firm decision not to defend his post in the October party polls has finally tugged at the heartstrings of many, irrespective of the political divide among rank-and-file members.

While his rivals visibly welcomed the decision, many of his loyal aides and supporters are struggling to accept the inevitability of the Ong (Ka Ting)-Chan (Kong Choy) era drawing to close.

For the party, a new chapter is ready to be opened.

Ka Ting has made a strategic move in terms of timeliness and in marking his first 100 days in the political pale, following the March 8 general election. It is also symbolic for MCA leaders in government, as it ushers in a new team spirit and a new beacon of hope.

On Saturday, Ka Ting had unexpectedly said in press release that he would not defend his post, putting to rest speculation on his next political move. It was a decision that the party had been waiting to hear.

Nonetheless, grassroots leaders from Negri Sembilan and Selangor made their way to the party headquarters in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, to persuade Ka Ting to reconsider his decision.

Joining them were several MCA ministers and deputies including Ong Tee Keat (Transport), Liow Tiong Lai (Health), Kong Cho Ha (Finance), Wee Ka Siong (Education), Teng Boon Soon (National Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage) and Dr Hou Kok Chung (Higher Education).

Ka Ting’s decision is regenerating keener interest in the leadership succession. Widespread speculation is that Tee Keat is a possible contender for the presidency, as he has been given a bigger role in briefing party members in an ongoing nationwide road show.

Unknown to many, Ka Ting and Tee Keat (right) were seen in a private discussion yesterday for almost an hour before the former addressed some 300 MCA Selangor officials.

Ka Ting told the gathering that his 20-odd years of experience in party work have prompted intuition that the road ahead for the party will not be an easy one.

“In the wee hours of ‘308' (general election night), on my way home from the PWTC, a pertinent question troubled my mind: ‘With such results (for MCA), who should take responsibility?’. I slept for only two hours. I then called an emergency meeting of the political bureau.”

Narrating his experiences, Ka Ting said: “From 20-odd years in diverse roles and occupying various party posts, I fully comprehend the political scenario of the 1960s. I was considered the youngest public speaker in the 1980s and I had to read widely on MCA history.

“I was a researcher during the Lee (San Choon) years…..I have undergone two party crises….I participated in five general elections….I fully understand the implications and the impact of the March 8 polls results for the MCA.

“I know that there are many contributing factors for the poor showing and that this was beyond the control of the party and its leaders...”

However, he conceded that the party had failed to convince the Chinese Malaysian community to support it.

MCA has since lost its ‘senior’ status as a Barisan Nasional component party. Since the party president now does not hold a ministerial post, as is the convention, issues of protocol (seating in the cabinet and at official events) have arisen.

“I have given much thought to this. Even if I were to contest and retain the presidency and I remain as leader for another three years, it will not be possible for me to return to a government post (as a matter of principle).”

Winning back respect

Ka Ting also said his decision was based on the principles of accountability and responsibility.

“I make this decision in exchange with the Chinese community, to regain their respect……By not seeking re-election (to reflect my principles), I hope to regain the people’s trust, respect and confidence in the party.

“I am willing to sacrifice myself for the party’s poor performance to ensure that the integrity, dignity of our party and leaders remain intact.”

In line with his earlier call for a healthy political culture, he expressed confidence that the party elections will be conducted smoothly.

There is no turning back. Ka Ting has sent a strong message and a signal that a new chapter in the party must be opened. There must be a new beginning, fresh hope, a new leadership team and revitalised energy to face the challenges ahead.

Political observers agree that he has made the right decision, for it will allow members to ‘unload’ the baggage of factionalism and more time to consider the calibre of the candidates for the top posts.

“I’ve received many text-messages from those outside the party, expressing support for my decision. I hope you too will support my decision. I also hope my decision will effectively bridge any differences within the party,” Ka Ting said.

(And teasingly) “I hope you will wrap up your differences and put in my luggage for me to take away when I leave.”

Will the departure of Ka Ting and Chan end factionalism within the party?

On May 23, 2003, after the central committee had appointed Ka Ting as president, he had said: “I am honoured to be given the heavy responsibility to serve as the party president, (but) at the same time there is a deep sense of sadness and heavy heartedness.

“Forget the factional politics of the past. It’s time to consolidate and move ahead…..Kong Choy and I will do our utmost to strengthen party unity.”

If there is a legacy which Ka Ting, the seventh MCA president, wishes to be carved into the annals of party history, he might find it in the words of John Wesley: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.”