Striking a balance for the country
> You have been instrumental in launching several initiatives to help the community, such as the 1MCA Medical Foundation. How is the community responding to it?
We have RM18mil in the 1MCA Medical foundation and RM9mil have been disbursed to multiracial recipients. On the micro-credit scheme, we have received more than 1,000 applications from youths in less than six months.
> Do you think such efforts can translate into votes?
As politicians, we always have an eye on the next general election. We hope our good work will be translated into votes.
> How important is Chinese representation in the Cabinet?
Our Constitution is crafted in such a way that the various ethnic groups are to be taken care of, in terms of religion, education and economy, since Independence. And this ethnic dimension is here to stay for a long time.
Because of this, the DAP masquerades itself as a multiracial party and a lot of youngsters believe that. It is a game of perception. As such, I have advocated that the proceedings of state executive council meetings and also Cabinet meetings be declassified so that the rakyat will understand the deliberations and also the roles played by Umno, MCA and MIC. I must say the government has been consistently fair. But we have problems when it comes to implementation.
> Has it been difficult being president of MCA while not holding a Cabinet post? How have you been able to pass on the party’s views on various matters to ensure the Cabinet take note of MCA’s stand?
The MCA is more vocal and makes a stand on almost all issues since I took over the helm. As a member of the National Economic Council, which meets every Monday, I make sure my voice is heard. I am one of the most vocal members in the council chaired by the Prime Minister. And I must also thank the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister for making themselves very accessible to me. The direct contact has enabled them to understand the issues confronting the Chinese community.
> The MCA general assembly today will be the last one before the coming general election. What message do you plan to send to your delegates?
This is a do-or-die battle. It is time to have a feeling of urgency, work hard and unite as a team. Hard work, team work, unity and being people-friendly are important to win this election.