Former MCA president Dr Ling Liong Sik today denied allegations that he is helping a faction within the party to stop vice-president Ong Tee Keat from winning the presidency.

Ling - party leader for almost 17 years - stressed that he has quit politics and intends to savour life in retirement.

"I have retired for five years and enjoying the benefits and joys of retirement. So, nothing will draw me back."

The former transport minister is relishing his travels abroad and in around the country.

ling liong sik Local Chinese press Oriental Daily carried a frontpage report on Monday speculating that Ling is acting as the 'mastermind' in rallying his former subordinates.

Those implicated are former vice-president Dr Chua Soi Lek and current vice-presidents Donald Lim Siang Chai and Dr Fong Chan Onn.

It has been suggested that they are forming a team to contest in the party election in October.

The triumvirate are expected to provide a very strong challenge to president Ong Ka Ting’s preferred choice as successor, Ong Tee Kiat.

Ka Ting has announced that he is not seeking re-election.

It was an open secret that Ling and Tee Kiat did not have a cordial relationship while they were president and Youth chief respectively.

In one mouthful

Speaking to Malaysiakini at his Bukit Damansara residence this afternoon, Ling also urged MCA leaders to prioritise party unity, quoting his two famous remarks.

bn component party polls 080708 “When people endeavoured to build teams (for party elections) during my time, I would remind them that a family can solve problems better when there is harmony.

"The other advice is: Don't tell everything in one mouthful (don’t go telling everything you know at one go)," he added.

However, Ling did not deny meeting Chua, Lim and other MCA leaders.

"Yes, we talked about politics, but the discussions didn’t border on any conspiracy. Everybody is a friend. Upon retirement five years ago, I left my door open. I never said it was closed to you or you,” he explained.

"Whenever people come and have coffee with me or drink whisky, we discuss (about politics) and share views," he added.

"A mastermind for the party elections! That I am not. I am happily retired and have absolutely no desire to re-enter politics," Ling declared.