KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) needs to assume the political-centre role to prevent further desecration of the nation's sanctity, said its deputy secretary-general Datuk Dr. Pamela Yong.
"The polarisation of our Malaysian people in the recent six state elections, where Malays lean to the right, while non-Malays lean to the left, has set an unhealthy tone for the sanctity of our country's diverse and plural society.
"And with 3R (race, religion, and royalty) sentiments continually being played up by irresponsible parties for their selfish political gains, it will no doubt drag the country further into a regressive abyss. Our country is on the verge of failing in civil liberties.
"MCA needs to step up and assume this political-centre role by providing a viable and healthy alternative option to our fellow Malaysians," said the Sino-native Dusun Bumiputera dentist from Sabah in a statement.
Yong, who is contesting for the party vice president position, said she seeks support to have her within the ranks of MCA to bring diversity, new ideas and transformation.
The Federation of Sabah Chinese Women Associations president also added that she could position MCA as a credible and formidable people-centric political party in the absence of a 'BN house'.
"I am embarking on this journey for a reason. It's humbling, but deep in my heart, I know I did not come to this juncture just for me. I am here because I believe in what MCA is and what MCA can be.
"I believe I can, in my capacity as one of the four vice presidents, bring about these 3R changes: Rebuild relationships with BN component parties; Reinstill Sabah/Sarawak interracial cultures into Semenanjung; and Reposition MCA as the frontier for policy engagement.
"Please lend me your strength and support and entrust your mandate to me to be one of the party's front-liners as we face unprecedented uncertainty and challenges in times ahead."