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DEMOCRATIC Action Party (DAP) Secretary-General Anthony Loke has dismissed suggestions that the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) should be dissolved and merge with DAP, stating it was not the party's official position but merely the personal view of Kampar MP, Chong Zhemin.
“That is his personal opinion. It’s not the party’s stance and has never been discussed,” Loke told reporters after attending a hi-tea event with top SPM scorers in Seremban on Sunday.
“He can express his views, but firstly, this is not a party position and secondly, I don’t see such a possibility,” he added.
Chong had recently suggested that the MCA disband and join DAP if it still wished to fight for multiracialism, justice and genuine progress in the country, arguing that MCA no longer represented the Chinese community.
“MCA today holds only two parliamentary seats, both in Malay-majority areas. They won solely because of UMNO supporters' votes. The truth is, MCA no longer represents the Chinese community,” Chong said.
“I urge MCA to return those two seats to UMNO and take a bold step to dissolve the party and join DAP for the future of the country,” he added, noting that former Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s recent call for UMNO to merge into Bersatu would be more appropriately directed at MCA.
During the same event, which saw Loke presenting cash incentives of RM1,000 to RM2,000 to 219 high-achieving SPM leavers from his Seremban constituency, he said the rewards were intended to motivate students to strive for academic excellence.
Direct KL–Bangkok Cargo Rail Link to Enhance Regional Trade
In a separate development, Loke, who is also Transport Minister, revealed that the government will soon launch a direct cargo rail service between Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok to improve trade flows with Thailand and deepen ASEAN economic integration.
The Cabinet has approved the plan, which is fully backed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, and the service is expected to begin later this year.
“As ASEAN Chair, we want to see increased intra-regional trade. A direct Kuala Lumpur–Bangkok rail link will also enhance connectivity to other countries, including Laos, China, and Central Asia,” said Loke.
“This initiative requires close cooperation between Malaysia and Thailand. My recent visit to Bangkok was productive, and I had a positive discussion with Thailand’s Transport Minister, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister,” he said.
Loke also shared that efforts are underway to revive the direct passenger rail service between Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok, which he said could become a unique tourism product.
“For example, tourists from Europe could travel by train to Kuala Lumpur and continue directly to Bangkok, and vice versa. It’s also more affordable than flying.
“Although the journey takes 15 to 16 hours, it offers scenic views of rural areas along the way, creating a memorable travel experience. I’m confident this mode of transport will appeal to many tourists,” he added.
According to Loke, the passenger service could be reinstated quickly using existing tracks connecting Bangkok, Padang Besar, Butterworth, and Kuala Lumpur. Both Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) have been given three months to make the necessary preparations. - May 4, 2025