Sabah MCA open to working with other political parties, says state party chief

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah MCA has no issue with working with Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Malaysia (Parti KDM) and Parti Warisan, or any political party for that matter, says its newly appointed chief, Datuk Teah Heok Kiun.

He said what mattered was that the political parties were genuine allies that allowed Sabah MCA to have a voice and presence in the government so that they could help the state develop better.

He was responding to Sabah Umno chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin’s recent statement that Sabah Barisan Nasional was open to working with Parti Warisan and Parti KDM for the upcoming state election which could be called earlier than its scheduled 2025 date.

On Nov 19, Bung issued this statement, saying that while this was possible, it was still too early for the coalition to firm up any commitment.

Teah said, Sabah MCA can work with everyone if needed, as long as the political vision and objectives benefit everyone, as well as the people.

When asked if Sabah MCA would abide by any decision made by the Sabah Barisan chief, even if it was made without consulting other component parties, he said not necessarily.

Teah said decisions that benefit the party and the people must be supported, but it was also important to get all members to first get the information and be on board before any statement that involved the whole party was issued.

On this, he stated that Sabah MCA does not wish to be enemies with anyone and can work with everyone, but they want a part to play in decision-making, policy-making, and government.

He said this is because Sabah MCA does not want to continue to be in the background, supporting member parties and allies forever.

Teah said they wanted a stronger government presence and were now working towards making allies instead of foes.

Meanwhile, he said Sabah MCA and the new committee lineup were in the midst of getting back people’s support and confidence towards the party.