Kampar MP Chong Zhemin has called on the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) to disband and merge with the Democratic Action Party (DAP), claiming the party has lost its relevance and survives solely on the strength of Umno’s voter base.
In a bold statement, Chong urged MCA to return its two parliamentary seats to Umno, asserting that the once-prominent Barisan Nasional component no longer has the support of the Chinese community and now depends entirely on Malay voters for political survival.
“MCA has become politically irrelevant,” Chong said. “The responsible thing to do would be to return the seats to Umno and take the courageous step of dissolving and joining DAP. This is not just about party politics — it’s about advancing Malaysia’s future through pluralism, justice, and progress.”
Chong’s remarks were issued in response to former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin’s recent suggestion that Umno should disband and merge with Bersatu. Chong said the advice was more appropriate for MCA, which he believes is in a far weaker and more compromised position.
“What’s even more disgraceful is that MCA continues to criticize DAP while still relying on Umno’s voter base just to stay alive. That’s a party without principles or self-respect,” he said.
The Kampar MP added that politics should not be driven by outdated loyalties or romanticized memories of the past. Instead, parties should act with bravery and pragmatism, guided by the realities on the ground and the needs of the people.
He also extended an open invitation to those in MCA who still believe in democratic values, inclusiveness, and fairness. “DAP welcomes all individuals who are committed to building a more united and equitable Malaysia,” Chong said.
His comments reflect ongoing tensions between DAP and MCA, two parties historically seen as rivals within Malaysia’s multiethnic political framework. While DAP has gained significant traction in urban and Chinese-majority areas, MCA has seen a dramatic decline in influence over recent elections, with only two parliamentary seats remaining under its belt.
Chong’s challenge puts further pressure on MCA to reassess its identity and role in the rapidly evolving political landscape — one where old alliances may no longer be enough to secure relevance or legitimacy.
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