MCA has strived to engage not just the Chinese, but also Malays, Indians and other races, says Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.

“Being part of Barisan Nasional makes us less chauvinistic and more inclusive. We are very proud that this is the formula of success of Barisan for our people to live in harmony and peace,” the MCA president said.

Speaking to reporters after addressing English-speaking party members during a one-day special engagement programme at Wisma MCA here, Liow said MCA had identified its weaknesses after the last general election and has strived for self-improvement and revitalisation.

“We have been able to make structural changes and go through a self-cleansing process, which is crucial.

“We are ready to move forward and inspire the Chinese community and rakyat that a revamped MCA is a strong MCA,” he said.

Talk is rife that the 14th general election will be held this year, and Liow said MCA has already started going to the ground to engage the people.

He cautioned the Chinese against voting themselves out of the Government as MCA would be able to deliver and resolve problems if it remains in the Government. 

Citing Tunku Abdul Rahman University College, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman and Koperasi Jayadiri Malaysia Bhd as examples of MCA’s contribution to the community, Liow said the party has continued to persevere and remains committed to the rakyat.

On PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang's Private Member's Bill, Liow said a legal team formed by MCA and representatives from Chinese non-governmental organisations and associations has been meeting over the past two weeks to discuss the issue.

He said the team would submit a memorandum to him on Sunday to be passed to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and the Cabinet.

On the mega rally planned by PAS on Feb 18 to show support for the Bill, Liow said it has to go through the proper procedures in accordance with the Peace Assembly Act.

Liow stressed that MCA’s stance on Hadi's Bill has not wavered.

“We will vehemently oppose it as it is running against the Federal Constitution,” he said.

-The Star-