GEORGE TOWN: MCA will continue to speak up for the people, whether in the opposition or as part of the government, its president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said.
"As long as the party remains strong and is dignified, we will do what is necessary," he said after officiating the state MCA annual convention here today.
He said this when asked to comment on the views of a political analyst that there was not much the party and MIC could do to help Barisan Nasional to return dominant in the next two or three general elections.
Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia's Lau Zhe Wei said the position of both component parties, which won a total of three parliamentary seats, was seen as difficult for them to stand alone.
Wee, in thanking the analyst for his views, said he was free to present his opinions and that MCA was used to such opinions.
He said it was important for party members to carry out their duties "with noble and pure intentions".
He said he had previously fought alone as the sole member of parliament from the party and would continue with the struggle.
"I will not stop until the people's problems are resolved. That is it.
"We have gone through our time as the opposition and part of the government, even without a position. I have experienced it all.
"I have been a backbencher, a deputy minister, a minister, and now, even as an opposition, it is okay.
"I will carry out my duties and responsibilities, even if at times I was insulted. At least we understand the pulse of the people and do what is needed of us.
"As long as this party remains strong, and is dignified, it will do what is necessary, he said.
Wee said he respected the analyst's right to speak.
Unlike others, he said, he would not resort to taking legal action.
"Opinions are their right. If they want to speak, let them.
"If we think there's truth in it, we make changes, and that's it," he said.
Meanwhile, Wee said the people must feel MCA's presence on the ground and listen to their needs and woes before the party talks about contesting in the elections.
He said it was pointless to talk about seats if their members are not on the ground and champion the people's issues.
"It does not necessarily have to be a position in the government to be able to do it. We can serve as a check and balance.
"Our presence on the ground must be felt first, and if the people endorse us, then we can fight for that seat," he said when asked to comment on Penang MCA's resolution of wanting to contest its traditionally contested seats in Penang in the next elections.