Barisan Nasional (BN) secretary-general Zambry Abd Kadir expressed confidence that MCA and MIC, key components of the coalition, would resist overtures from PAS to join the opposition Perikatan Nasional (PN) in the upcoming 16th general election.
Zambry emphasized the political maturity of MCA and MIC, noting that both parties are seasoned players in Malaysia’s political landscape. “I believe they know the tactics of PN components—Bersatu, PAS, and Gerakan—too well,” he said in a statement today.
He underscored BN’s foundational principles, established by co-founders Umno, MCA, and MIC, which prioritize racial harmony and moderation. Zambry accused PN of exploiting dissatisfaction among MCA and MIC leaders toward BN and the unity government. “BN has always been prudent, resolving issues through consultation. This collaborative spirit will endure despite current challenges,” he added.
On Monday, BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who also serves as Umno president, cautioned that PAS deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man’s efforts to court MCA and MIC might not align with the parties’ interests. Tuan Ibrahim’s invitation on Sunday followed reports of several MCA and MIC state chapters urging their leadership to exit BN due to frustration over limited government positions.
Zahid clarified that neither MCA nor MIC leaders had raised the prospect of leaving BN with him or brought the issue to the BN Supreme Council. In June, MCA president Wee Ka Siong told The Straits Times that 191 MCA division assemblies would deliberate on the party’s future direction, with proposals to be presented at its annual general meeting in October.
MIC recently signaled openness to discussions with any political party to ensure its survival and better serve the Indian community.
