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THE Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) has no intention of leaving Barisan Nasional, its president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said on Friday, dismissing speculation about the party’s future within the coalition following recent political tensions.
Responding to questions after Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi delivered his policy speech at the Umno General Assembly 2025, Wee underscored MCA’s long-standing role in the alliance.
“As far as MCA is concerned, we are a founding party of BN. So that question does not arise,” he said when asked whether the party would continue to remain in the coalition.
His remarks came against the backdrop of unease previously expressed within MCA over Barisan Nasional’s political direction.
At its general assembly last year, the party passed a resolution stating it would quit BN should any component party cooperate with DAP in the next general election.
Wee said Zahid’s speech, which emphasised unity within Umno and among coalition partners, was significant for reinforcing Barisan Nasional’s cohesion.
“As a component party, we are ready to see any effort to strengthen our respective parties. Ultimately, this will translate into the overall strength of BN,” he said, adding that the coalition should be regarded as a “shared home”.
He also welcomed efforts to rebuild confidence and encourage the return of former members, saying such moves were essential to consolidating Barisan Nasional’s position going forward.
Earlier, Zahid, who is also Barisan Nasional chairman and deputy prime minister, urged MCA and MIC to stop “sulking” and remain in the coalition, acknowledging that the decision to join the unity government in the national interest had strained relations among BN component parties.
In his address at the 79th Umno General Assembly, Zahid appealed for reconciliation, likening disagreements within the coalition to disputes among family members.
Commenting on Zahid’s remarks about openness to broader political cooperation, Wee said any such engagement must be viewed within the context of Malaysia’s multiracial and multi-religious society.
He added that while MCA was open to dialogue on issues of common concern, any cooperation carried out under the Barisan Nasional banner must take into account diversity and prevailing political realities. - January 16, 2026