MCA will work together with any non-governmental organisation (NGO) in the interest of the people and nation.

Party president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek said the cooperation in areas like education, economy, employment and health were needed to complement government efforts.

“MCA is not perfect but we are giving our best in the interest of the community.

“While there are certain quarters who tend to harp on Chinese issues and distort them, especially nearing the general election, let us not allow such acts to make us lose sight of the larger picture,” he said at the Han Jiang Association dinner at Kutien Hall, Ayer Tawar on Sunday.

Speaking to more than 1,100 association members who came from several states, Dr Chua said:

“Your support for MCA will be translated into strength and encouragement for the party to continue to serve and do better.

“Your criticism will enable us to change for the better and develop.”

Dr Chua said all Malaysians must work together to stay afloat in the wake of a challenging world economy.

He said developed countries worldwide were being plagued by a slowing economy, high rate of unemployment and mounting debts.

Malaysia’s economy was also affected because these countries were also Malaysia’s trading partners, he added.

Dr Chua said Malaysia’s projected economic growth this year was between 4% and 4.5%, against 5.1% last year, attributing the resilience to the country’s focus on economy under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s leadership.

He said every effort should be taken to make sure the country’s conditions would continue to be conducive for economic growth.

“Politicising issues and creating conflict among community relations is not healthy.

“So, let us not allow certain quarters to affect the racial harmony, stability and peace which is the foundation for the country’s development,” he said.

Meanwhile, MCA secretary-general and Transport Minister Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha said the government’s policies which provided a good investment climate had contributed to the success of the Chinese in the country.

“The good foundation, built over the decades, must be preserved and no one should take any risk that can destroy it,” he said.

Perak DAP chairman Datuk Ngeh Koo Ham praised the NGOs for their voluntary work to make life better for the people.

He likened their selfless acts to a burning candle – lighting up the lives of other people.

The Sitiawan assemblyman also urged NGOs to state their stand on social issues,

Events chairman Beh Lek Kia said the Chinese community wanted a political environment that could provide a good future for the young.

Another community leader Tan Chai Kie said the community did not want to see different groups arguing over issues affecting the community.

“The government should put an end to such arguments, or else the community will end up being the victim,” said Tan, who is Malaysian Teochew Licence Committee deputy chairman.

-The Star-