Barisan Nasional (BN) can strengthen its political footing in future elections if its members prioritize unity over internal conflicts, according to BN Chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Addressing the 71st MCA general assembly today, Zahid urged BN’s component parties to focus on collaboration and avoid bringing "bedroom issues into our front yard"—a metaphor for publicizing internal disagreements that could weaken the coalition.
Zahid emphasized that BN's prospects for securing more parliamentary seats in the next general election would significantly improve if the parties within the coalition remained focused on the broader goal of political success, rather than allowing trivial disputes to fester. "We must set aside these smaller issues and come together for the greater good. If we do so, I have no doubt that BN can win decisively, even in states currently held by the opposition," he said.
Zahid, who also serves as Malaysia’s deputy prime minister, urged BN leaders to develop robust election strategies tailored to the next general election. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, noting that while internal problems are common in any political party, the key lies in how they are addressed. "It’s not about the problems themselves, but how we handle them. If we can resolve our internal conflicts behind closed doors and focus on what unites us, BN will be in a stronger position to win."
He encouraged the leadership to channel their energy into strengthening the coalition’s machinery and to craft strategies that appeal to a wide voter base. He also expressed confidence in MCA’s ability to regain its former prominence, reiterating his commitment to support MCA alongside the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) and Friends of BN, a group of smaller parties aligned with the coalition.
BN's political landscape has shifted dramatically in recent years. Once the dominant force in Malaysian politics, BN suffered a significant blow in the 14th General Election (GE14) in 2018, securing only 78 out of 222 parliamentary seats. This defeat marked the first time BN lost control of the federal government since Malaysia’s independence in 1957. In the subsequent 15th General Election (GE15) in November 2022, BN’s performance worsened, securing only 30 seats, of which 26 were won by Umno, BN’s largest party.
Despite the setbacks, Zahid believes that BN’s fortunes can be reversed if the coalition remains united and focuses on the electorate’s needs. He urged the leadership to refrain from airing internal disagreements in public, as doing so would only weaken the coalition’s credibility. "Every party has its issues, but we must deal with them discreetly. Our strength lies in unity, and we cannot afford to lose sight of that," Zahid said.
During the assembly, Zahid announced that MCA President Wee Ka Siong has been appointed as the investment adviser for the Malaysian Chinese community, reflecting MCA’s continued importance within the coalition. Zahid also reiterated his support for MCA and expressed confidence that the party would once again emerge as a key political force.
He also highlighted his commitment to improving the welfare of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), an institution closely associated with MCA. Zahid reassured MCA members that he would work to enhance the university’s standing and support its development efforts.
In response, MCA President Wee Ka Siong raised an important issue concerning UTAR’s financial status. Wee urged Zahid to help lobby Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who also holds the finance portfolio, to grant UTAR and the UTAR Education Foundation (UTAREF) permanent tax-exempt status. He explained that the university has already submitted a formal request for this exemption under Sections 44(6) and 127(3A) of the Income Tax Act 1967.
Wee pointed out that although Prime Minister Anwar had previously written off RM83 million in tax arrears and penalties for UTAR, granting permanent tax-exempt status would ensure the university’s long-term financial stability. "We hope that with Zahid’s influence and support, we can convince the prime minister to provide a definitive solution on this matter," said Wee.
As BN charts its course for the future, Zahid’s message was clear: unity, not division, will be the key to reclaiming lost ground in Malaysia’s political landscape. With strong leadership, strategic planning, and a focus on internal harmony, Zahid believes that BN can turn the tide and secure greater success in upcoming elections.
Whether or not BN can rebuild its strength remains to be seen, but Zahid’s call for collaboration and discretion offers a roadmap for a coalition looking to regain its political dominance.
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