Opinions: Kong wins bid for Deputy President

Below is an article for created by the imagination of Insider MCA only... to be the news at night of 28th March 2010, after a collection of thoughts and opinions from every corner of MCA.

Kong wins bid for Deputy President

KUALA LUMPUR, Mar 28 - Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha in his bid for MCA Deputy President was successful today with a whooping margin of 600 votes over Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai. The central delegates sent a strong message to reject Liow, further allegation that this could end his political career and lost his Ministerial post.

A battered Liow had a press conference just minutes after the party elections results were announced. Tired and visibly in a low mood, he hinted that he was trapped and should not have been forcing the fresh polls.

MCA elders have circulated that Ka Ting was the mastermind behind the third force which now trapped himself and his team. Liow, a clear supporter of Ka Ting and obviously the hand used by Ka Ting to force the fresh polls, admited that he is wrong in his decision and felt betrayed.

One central delegates who was at the press conference shouted loudly, "Serves you right! You betrayed Tee Keat and now you feel it!"

Political analysts said that Liow will not win the polls. "There were three factions - Ka Ting, Tee Keat and Soi Lek. Clearly, Liow only has the support of Ka Ting's supporters and Ka Ting lose the fight. Ka Ting could comfortably go back to retirement but he has deprieved the political career of the young leaders. Obviously, Liow is not a good leader nor is he a good follower but he was too easily used by someone to first tear down Tee Keat's position and then trapped himself in a fresh polls," says Cheng Chong Ching.

Losing his seat as the Deputy President, the ambitious Liow has viciously killed his own political career. It was well known that the fight for the Deputy President was also a fight for their minister posts. It is now up to the President to decide if Liow should remain the Health Minister but analyst said that it will be unlikely.

Opinions: Tee Keat remains President

Below is an article for created by the imagination of Insider MCA only... to be the news at night of 28th March 2010, after a collection of thoughts and opinions from every corner of MCA. 

Tee Keat remains President

KUALA LUMPUR, Mar 28 - Incumbent Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat elected as President of MCA today with a whooping 65%  voted for him. In a surprising sweep of votes to Tee Keat, majority of the central delegates voted for change and decided to give Tee Keat a chance for another one year to review his performance during the next party election.

The central delegates crushed the ants (a party agenda by Datuk Seri Chua Soi Lek who obtained only 25% votes) and sending a strong message to reject the recycled President, Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting who garnered only 10% votes.

MCA elders said that the 10% votes for Ka Ting are by his staunch supporters while Soi Lek's supporters switched sides after deliberate consideration for the good of the party. A central delegate who declined to be named said that initially they supported Ong Ka Ting to be President and Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai as Deputy President because they could save the party but at the last minute of voting, a sweep of support for Tee Keat was felt and they all voted in for Tee Keat. "Tiong Lai's supporters quickly asked all Ka Ting's supporters to switch camp to Tee Keat," citing confusion at first but seeing a note signed by their respective leaders, they confirmed that they should vote for the Tee Keat - Tiong Lai pair instead.

Tiong Lai declined to comment on the sudden sweep of support for Tee Keat and denied that it was his work in the sudden sweep. Tee Keat supporters, still reeling from shock of the support garnered, said, "If it is not because of Ka Ting, it will be a tough fight. We thank Tiong Lai who finally give his support to Tee Keat and pull a wave of support to us."

Tee Keat said that his 65% vote for him is a call for support of his agenda to change and leaving MCA Headquarters hurriedly, he said, "Is time to get back to work. I have no time for interview. There are many changes to be made and reforms to be done. I will make announcements soon." Swarmed by supporters and delegates, he took about fifteen minutes to get to his car while his lone bodyguard had difficulty in guarding off the MCA delegates. Right before he reached his car, delegates carried him and flew the well-built President to the air three times before he was finally put down to enter his car.

An interview with Ka Ting supporters revealed that they do not trust mainstream media anymore because it was him controlling the stakes. However, with the Internet advancement now, there are many alternative media like blogs, Facebook, news sites and Twitter allowing central delegates to read and make decisions.

"We were so sure that those negative remarks regarding Ka Ting were baseless but on the election day, many documents were circulated to proof the truth behind those statements like linking with underworlds, ungratefulness to family members and alleged step-by-step plan for a comeback. We were so surprised that the person we once so revered was so cunning and we decided to switch camp," one main supporter said.

One delegate said that, "We also received a SMS the night before election that Ka Ting is a rejected candidate. Ka Ting's supporters have been saying Tee Keat will sure lose and if Tee Keat sure lose, we should vote for Ka Ting so not to waste votes. Now that Ka Ting is losing, we should not waste votes by voting for him, so I voted for Tee Keat instead. I believe in change."

Ka Ting declined to comment on the results but angrily mentioned that the documents produced on that day were a plot to remove him politically. Declining to mention who he suspected was behind the move and whether the allegations were true, he said, "I do not know who do it. Maybe you should ask the winner of the day. I do not want to say whether the documents are true but it should not appear today."

Soi Lek who lost the bid for Presidency was taken aback with only 25% voted for him. "I thank those who supported me and voted for me. I thank those who said they will vote for me." Expecting at least 40% votes, he said he has worked hard to garner votes.

MACC which has been monitoring the MCA Presidency election said they do not rule out money politics within the election and will investigate, further saying that they will charge anyone involved regardless of position.

MCA president-in-transit — Bob Teoh

MCA president-in-transit — Bob Teoh

MARCH 23 — There are two important points to note in the current MCA polls. The first is that the MCA is about the most democratic party in the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition.
To begin with, the party has amended its constitution so that the principal office bearers can remain in office not more three terms or nine years. In addition, anyone can run for any posts unlike, say, Umno or MIC, where the top posts are reserved only for the warlords.
Then someone mooted the idea of opening up party elections to all members instead of the 2,000 or so delegates. If this move comes to pass, then there is still hope for other BN component parties to re-invent themselves if they are bold enough to follow the MCA's example.
The second thing to note is that it is a rare three-cornered race for the presidency so anything can happen. We have Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting, the immediate past president, his anointed successor Datuk Seri Ong Kee Teat, and Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek, who was sacked by Tee Keat as duly elected party deputy president. In such circumstances, it is difficult for anyone of the three to emerge as the clear winner even though the bets are being piled up on one of them.
Don't forget this is not a winner-takes-all sweep because the winner will only be a president-in-transit until the regular party polls at next year's AGM.
To answer the question why is Ka Ting making a comeback, we must first ask why did he step down in the first place even though his term of office was not due to expire then? The party suffered its most ignoble defeat since the 1969 general election in the March 8, 2008 general election. So Ka Ting did the honourable thing by taking the blame by stepping down and going into well-earned retirement even though he was still not even 50 then.

He arranged for the baton to pass on to Tee Keat. Problem was Tee Keat is not a team player and he quickly sacked Dr Chua, who was the duly elected deputy president. As it turned out, Tee Keat was forced to face a confidence vote which he did bravely and promised to step down even if he lost by one vote. As it came to pass, he lost by more than just one vote but Tee Keat refused to step down. That's why this week's extraordinary party polls are called to try to oust him.

Tee Keat and Dr Chua bring their baggage with them to the polls. Tee Keat didn't keep his word. So the question is can the delegates trust him? Can BN partners, particularly Umno, trust him?

Dr Chua quickly apologised and stepped down from all party posts including his MP seat and as health minister following the sensational exposure of the DVD sex scandal. Now he wants to lead the party. Will his past shadow him?
Ka Ting comes with hardly any baggage. In his own words, he has come out of retirement to help unify the party. The question is, has he been absolved from the party's disastrous outing at the 2008 general election? Is he going to be just a president-in-transit or is this his long-term comeback bid?
Should Ka Ting win, it would be unprecedented in local politics. Should he lose, he can just walk away. He was only trying to help but no thank you.
Should Tee Keat or Dr Chua win, well that would be very interesting to see if either of them can last the distance to the party polls next year. — mysinchew.com
* This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication. The Malaysian Insider does not endorse the view unless specified.
Source: http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/index.php/opinion/breaking-views/57254-mca-president-in-transit--bob-teoh


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Wonders......

Does the Writer, Bob Teoh knows that it was well planned by Ong Ka Ting that he passes baton to Ong Tee Keat then uses him to execute Chua Soi Lek? OKT also the same man forcing the EGM - creating the third force to vote against Ong Tee Keat. But less than he even expected, Chua Soi Lek made a come back! Then he forces a new fresh poll and comes out as saviour for the party.

Ka Ting comes out with hardly any baggage? A MCA elder quickly "pui...!" to this statement saying that he has left so much unattended baggage to Ong Tee Keat and now Tee Keat seen to be a rival to Soi Lek. Why didn't he execute Soi Lek before resigning?

More so, since Tee Keat already knew about the third force and that it was a force to oust him, why should he resign with that mere margin? Should he not stayed back and see what does the third force is up to? Now that the fresh poll is forced.... it is clear, that the third force is created by Ka Ting himself - a step by step plan to comeback....

MCA Elders spoke......

Wonders if there is any truth
 

Eight MCA Divisions In NS Openly Support Ka Ting (Or are they supporting another candidate now?)

March 23, 2010 18:04 PM

Eight MCA Divisions In NS Openly Support Ka Ting

SEREMBAN, March 23 (Bernama) -- Former MCA president Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting, who is contesting the party presidency in the MCA polls on Sunday, said today he felt motivated as eight party divisions in Negeri Sembilan had openly declared support for him.

He said he was also encouraged that Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai, who is contesting the deputy presidency, also supported his manifesto and wanted to stand together with him in the party elections.

"Today, in Negeri Sembilan, openly all eight divisions declared that they support my mission, support what I plan to do if I were given the opportunity. I was actually explaining and emphasising the manifesto," he told reporters after his luncheon meeting with the MCA members, here.

Ong said he explained his manifesto and his direction as well as how he would stabilise the party and bring back unity, dignity and integrity.

Liow, who also attended the meeting, told reporters his support for Ong was not a marriage of convenience.

"It's not a team merger. We have the convergence of philosophy. He announced his manifesto and we feel that he is in line with my ideas. So, I think we can work together," he said.

-- BERNAMA

Source: http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newspolitic.php?id=484692
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Wonders.............

If there is truth from the NS kopitiam saying that the supporters in NS are now supporting Ong Tee Keat and part of them have switched their support to Chua Soi Lek....

Wonders.........

Kopitiam Talks: (Part 4) Who Should be The MCA President?

Insider MCA was asked to analyse what will happen if the three candidates are NOT ELECTED as President of MCA.

This is wonderful as Insider MCA talks to many MCA elders. The news came about that Chua Soi Lek is now leading in garnering votes from central delegates while (deng deng deng... surprise!) Ong Tee Keat is second. Seems like Ong Ka Ting, who controls the Chinese media and recently Chinese media wrote news as if he is already a MCA President, is totally rejected. However, kopitiam talks being just talks - only numbers generated tomorrow on 28th March 2010 will determine the Presidency.

MCA elders believe.......

( The below are based on hearsays and analysis by MCA elders through coffee shop talks only... there may be truth or even otherwise..)

IF.....

Ong Ka Ting is NOT ELECTED President - he will still be a hero and gets back to comfort retirement. A Tan Sri-ship is already with him, what does he expect? Tun?

IF......

Chua Soi Lek is NOT ELECTED President - high chance this man will join the froggy to Pakatan Rakyat, said the elders. Recent news report shows that Chua Soi Lek thanked the Pakatan Rakyat for not using his sex scandal against him.  

“None of the Pakatan Rakyat parties have used this scandal against me. That is why I have the highest respect for them,” he said in an interview with the media yesterday.

An MCA elder said that he could be sensing there is lack of support from central delegates and that he could have thrown in a white flag before the election itself. Having "thank" the Pakatan Rakyat will pave way to good relationship with PR and when he loses his Presidency bid, he could cross over easily, joining Chua Jui Meng - Chua dynasty, why not?

A few MCA delegates said they have made up their minds to choose Ong Tee Keat for his CHANGE agenda, rejecting the 308 President and sex-scandaled candidate.Yet, if CSL jumps to PR, there is not much chance for him to rise. Pakatan Rakyat already has enough headaches with DSAI charges. Questions were already there - Why Anwar was charged and not Chua? (News here) Therefore, BN could be a comfortable umbrella for CSL "crime" but jumping over the fence may get him caught. So, CSL, do think twice if you are jumping...

IF.........

Ong Tee Keat is NOT ELECTED President - and because he believed in CHANGE - something likened to the PR's agenda, and being well-liked by the DAP as well, jumping over to PR could well be a good choice. His past relationships with both the BN and PR have been very well cemented and this politician goes well with everyone (politically). Therefore, it is just time for him to jump over and if he does, some said that a 2-party system could materialize. 

He has strong command in all languages and many people know he gets along well with all races and an advocate of unity and 1Malaysia. He is still young at 54 and therefore could do much if he is in the PR.

Insider MCA Reports......... coming soon!

Want to know who is leading the Presidency fight now? And deputy President?

Elders said that the results are not right until the moment the votes are counted but it is always fun to listen to MCA insiders and have coffee with real MCA people....

It was only a while ago that Insider MCA drove around MCA Headquarters to check out what is happening. A thought came to have a drink at the Lotus Restaurant near Nikko Hotel but alas, never knew that the place is now under constructions - a blessings though.... a discovery.


Insider MCA saw a Deputy Minister's car parked at the road side. Another peep at the building found a Minister's car at the porch of the building. Will post a few photos tomorrow as Internet in the Bolehland at 1.00am can be so slow.... 

Kopitiam Talks: (Part 3) Who Should be The MCA President?

Part 1
Part 2

The below are based on hearsays and analysis by MCA elders through coffee shop talks only... there may be truth or even otherwise..

Insider MCA analysis after loads of coffees with the Insiders. Insider MCA is a grass root person from the ground... Insider MCA goes in this sequence for easy readability.... OKT, CSL, OTK... no preference in the sequence...

UMNO and Acceptability of Other Component Parties

It is said that Ong Ka Ting has the advantage because he has been a yes-man but this "silent-killer" could turn the bowl otherwise, too if UMNO or PM are not careful with his strategies. His cards are well-hidden, plans are well-structured. Rumours said that he has planned the Ong empire even from the start of his Presidency. When he resigned, he has carefully planned his step-by-step come back (refer here) from the purposefully inheritance of party problems to Ong Tee Keat including sex scandal issue, silent Immediate Past President during crisis, pushing force for EGM to further spoil Chua Soi Lek - Ong Tee Keat relationship, immediate resolve by PM and then the man and mind behind the third force pushing for fresh election, and coming back as a saviour! 

He also did subsequent steps so quickly that Ong Tee Keat did not have the chance to implement an important reform which could very much benefit Tee Keat - the direct Presidential elections. Tee Keat has mass grass root support but if only central delegates were to elect, Ka Ting stands a high chance. 

This is the man that UMNO should be aware of, not a person that could really work with as an alliance. However, to the Chinese, this brilliant strategist could be the answer for MCA - silently kill the UMNOs and ketuanan Melayu.... Uncles at kopitiam added... the SMS saying he has the endorsement of PM is most likely circulated by Ong Ka Ting's supporters. 

How about Chua Soi Lek, asked Insider MCA. Kopitiam talks said that his tarnished sex scandal will always be a burden as BN does not want to be seen as depletion of capital when a sex-tarnished guy could be President of a component party. UMNO will not let the good image of BN be tarnished and written in history this way.

Of Ong Tee Keat, UMNO and PM are on cautious lookout. Accordingly, this "dog" is wild with many brilliant ideas and transformation steps. "Transformation", "Change", and "Reformation" are words that UMNO does not like - think Anwar, think opposition. However, Ong Tee Keat being a very open, straightforward and blunt leader - his cards are easily read and if UMNO could read and cooperate, this could be a "dog" to be tamed. Unlike the well-hidden agenda in Ong Ka Ting's mind, Ong Tee Keat will be easily handled if his wishes and ideas are implemented. 

MCA Unity

Generally, Ong Ka Ting does has his advantage as he still commands support from central delegates. In fact, he was seen to be able to have both Team A and Team B under control during his tenure as President. However, Chua Soi Lek and many mentioned his return has split the party (refer here and here), and yes he did. So, what is his plan to unite the party, Insider MCA wonders. While his "success" in having both Team A and B under control, he, too has his share of "uniting" the Chinese media except Oriental Daily to his benefits. Therefore, the unity in MCA under Ong Ka Ting could means unity for the Ong empire. 

Chua Soi Lek commands a very large percentage of support especially in Johor. Johor did a very good job in retaining seats during last General Election despite the political tsunami. Chua Soi Lek has his base in Johor with many on his sides despite attempts by Ong Ka Ting to remove him from Johor and Ong Tee Keat's line-up of new committee members in Johor. However, he was seen as "someone to be cautious of" out of Johor. No one leader in MCA should command such powerful support from one state. Insider MCA begs to differ because Insider MCA thinks that if he could be the leader of leader or leader... instead of just leader of followers - he is the right person for MCA Unity. 

Ong Tee Keat, being lone ranger all these while and declined to have any running mates for elections, always maintain his grass root supports. He is a leader of followers. Some dislike his ways of putting "his people" or making the many reforms by using his presidential powers. With his Transformation agenda, he is sure to lose out much supports as CHANGE is a big word with big sacrifice. However, as a leader of principles, he made a point to go for change RAIN or SHINE. For the sake of MCA Unity, he may score less but in preparing MCA to face the future, he could be the leader to do this.

Chinese Perceptions

People at large, Chinese in general, feels that Ong Ka Ting should remain in retirement and should not be out to contest. In fact, he should be resolving the party crisis immediately and not add another split to the already broken pieces of MCA. His reluctance or some said non-appearance during the crisis and sudden appearance to contest for Presidency has made many confirmed his step-by-step plans to set up the Ong empire within MCA. Both Ong brothers were patient and their patience paid off big way if they both win. 

The Chinese also do not want "close-door discussions" - popularised by Ka Ting, the control of Chinese media by a single political party - done during the days of Ka Ting's presidency despite many objections, losing of Chinese dignity to the Malays - by being an obedient under dog, sweeping party problems under carpet and the swept of General Elections by the tsunami - as in 308 under his tenure as President.

Chua Soi Lek has his support from the grass root, too. Any man on the street agrees that Soi Lek is the man! He has the guts, he admitted (unlike others who declare it sounds like him but is not him), and he stood true by resigning from all posts. Bravery has its fare share of fans but among the female, Soi Lek could not be the President. How is he going to fight for female rights or issues of the gender when he himself deprived his wife of? There is a fare share of male, too who did not agree with his sex scandal but accordingly, he has not any other corruption cases been exposed other than the sex glitch. 

Ong Tee Keat is seen as the only one who is brave enough for the issues concerning people on the street. Every single person in Malaysia wants to know what happened to the squandered monies and who did it. However, as much as he wanted to expose corruptions, many fired back with his corruption cases which he denied and later was open enough to be investigated by the MACC. Insider MCA view MACC as a vehicle by BN to kill anyone whom they do not want to be a leader, Tee Keat includes. 

With only ONE powerful weapon (PKFZ) to hold, what else could he do to the Chinese at large? He has records to show on HOPE program - getting all races qualified for universities but did not get a seat to have opportunities to study at private universities and colleges at the cost of local uni. Insider MCA is not interested to list all the achievements of the candidates but suffice to say Tee Keat is more a grass root leader and rising from poor family background and raised by a single mother, he knows what the people need. 

However, William Cheng from the commerce/business side has argued that Tee Keat did not do many things for the businesses particularly in helping the Chinese. It is understood that he came from poor family backgrounds and not business - that he failed to provide. However, to show that he has been assisting businesses, MCA put up a SME exhibition and talks at the MCA HQ before and during the party AGM. NGOs and a few other business trade missions came in defend on Tee Keat. While he has great relationships with NGOs and associations, the determining factor during MCA election is the central delegation. 

Insider MCA watches....

General Elections - coming soon....

Kopitiam talks said Ong Ka Ting care less on how MCA fare - he only cares if the Ongs win the seats by putting his brother in a save seat and winning his own seat. Elected representatives will be seen as leader and promoted within the party and when he loses, he will be thrown out. MCA elder purportedly said this is how cunning he is... One good example, Wong Nai Chee who won the Kota Melaka seat was the rising star under his leadership but now the star does not shine anymore when he stupidly resign for the man and mind of the third force. "Nai Chee should buck up and now know your leader better," uncles added, another nodded.

Chua Soi Lek on the other hand is very much hands-on, on the ground and very simple. He has brought his people's views and grouses and solved them. He commands support as he mentors and brings up young generations to lead - his people are now raised to many positions as opposed to Tee Keat's people. As Insider MCA puts it earlier, he is a leader of leader... However some may argued that this could lead to cronyism.

Tee Keat's very close approach to the grass root and people of all races is very well-liked by the people at large. Being the only MCA MP elected in the whole Selangor/Negeri Sembilan area, he has his strength in mingling with his people, serving his constituents well in order to garner this kind of strong support despite being sidelined by the two BN state assemblymen in his parliament and a tsunami that was so great in his constituency. One may recall that it was a six-party fight at Pandan - ADUN Cempaka (PAS-UMNO), ADUN Teratai (DAP-Gerakan) and Pandan (MCA-PKR) - the hottest area with almost every top leader of PR touched for ceramahs! While both BN ADUN failed and lose with very large margin, he still won with a fare margin - people in Pandan voted the BNs out of their state but still voted for Tee Keat. 

This same approach he uses to encourage every MCA division to serve the people and eventually win the hearts of the people - of course eventually win votes for the General Election. While many rakyat will see this as a great approach because the MCA will be built in strength by serving the people, many shortcut politicians or politicians-for-own-agenda will reject him. This approach is also well-liked by the hardworking Wanita MCA who mostly join MCA to serve the people (no prejudice - just a generalisation - kopitiam uncle added!). 

His manner and bravery also is well-liked by the younger generations proven by his approach from facebook (as mentioned in Part 2) as well as themed orange - a dynamic and young colour. Alright, Insider MCA feels that much were discussed on Ong Tee Keat for this sub-topic, indirectly indicating the kopitiam uncles subconsciously think Tee Keat could be the person to sweep back the tsunami back to MCA.

Tuesday March 23, 2010

Three Penang leaders voice support

THREE Penang MCA leaders have voiced their support for party president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat, who is defending his post in the upcoming party polls.

State Wanita MCA chief Tan Cheng Liang said former president Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting had asked them to support Tee Keat when he decided to quit the post after the March 2008 general election, adding that Tee Keat had worked hard since taking over the presidency.

"He took over the responsibility and obligation to transform and reform the party, which was why he went all out to get to the bottom of the Port Klang Free Zone scandal.

"But that was what got him into trouble. It is not easy for people who dare to fight corruption and uphold transparency," she said.

State MCA deputy chief Eng Hiap Boon said Tee Keat was going for a change by setting a new political culture in MCA besides making the party more relevant and not just a "welfare club".

"That was why certain people who could not accept the changes want to pull him down," said Eng.

Bagan MCA Youth chief David Chua said it was only fair that Tee Keat be given the time to complete his task.

"Despite that, he has done a good job by speaking up for the rakyat. I hope the central delegates will open their ears and listen to the voices of the people when casting their votes," Chua said, adding that Tee Keat was also popular among the people.

"We want someone who is not only the party's choice but also the people's choice to lead MCA.

"There is no point getting someone who is strong in the party but weak in the eyes of the public. The outcome of the party's elections will also affect our performance in the next general election," he said.

He urged delegates to vote based on their own wisdom rather than follow the choice of their division chiefs.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/3/23/mcaelection2010/5915532&sec=mcaelection2010

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Wonders......

All talking on Penang now.... will BN/ MCA capture Penang in the next General Election?

MCA’s No. 2 hopefuls aim to restore party’s image

Going separate ways … Ka Ting (left) and Tee Keat walk off the stage after the nominations.— Picture by Choo Choy May

By Asrul Hadi Abdullah Sani
KUALA LUMPUR, March 22 — The two candidates for the MCA deputy president's seat believe that the party's election this Sunday is essential to restore its credibility.
Datuk Seri Liong Tiong Lai said the party election is the best solution to resolve the current crisis affecting MCA.
"My hope is that the MCA election will run smoothly and the delegates will be able to decide on a strong party leadership. We are confident that we will be able to resolve the current crisis and that is the objective of having this election.
"I believe that the election process is the best way to get MCA out of its current crisis. We hope MCA will return to being strong after this election," he said.
The health minister has been pushing the party to hold fresh elections since 2009 but only succeeded after party deputy president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek's supporters joined his men in resigning from the central committee early this month.
Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha agreed with Liow and hoped that the party will be more united after the election.
"The purpose of this election is to resolve the problem in the party that has prolonged for more than a year. So of course I would like to see that after this fresh election, the party will be more united and will move forward in the right direction. And, of course, to face the upcoming general election.
"I won't say I have a manifesto but I have some directions which is my mission about the future of the party and the role that I am able to play," the housing and local government minister said.
The party crisis started last August when Dr Chua was sacked from the MCA for tarnishing the party's image, but he was subsequently let off and reinstated by the Registrar of Societies (RoS).
Two extraordinary general meetings had been planned to resolve the crisis which saw party president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat narrowly defeated in a vote of no confidence but did not resign.
A second EGM planned by Liow's faction to push for party election last November was aborted at the last minute.
The party election on March 28 will see Tee Keat being challenged by former MCA president Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting and Dr Chua.
Kong felt both he and Liow have an equal chance of winning the deputy presidency.
"I would say that any candidate has an equal chance. The decision will be made by the central delegates," he said.
Kong refused to confirm if he was in Dr Chua's camp but stressed that he was willing to work with anybody because he is a team player.
"I can work with all the people in the party... Actually, to me, those leaders who are elected will have to work together as a team because the team is elected by the central delegates and will have to respect the decision of the central delegates... the team selected has to abide by the wishes of the delegates.
"So as a team, I think all party members should work together with the elected leadership because the leadership is elected by the delegates," he said.
Source: http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/index.php/malaysia/57135-mcas-no-2-hopefuls-aim-to-restore-partys-image


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Wonders..........

Can LTL - a person who cannot be a follower.... be a leader and work with the Number 1? Being the third force, can he now work with OTK if the latter is elected President?

Kopitiam Talks: Hainanese Can't be MCA President?

Ka Ting comeback

2010/03/14
Eileen Ng
eileen@nst.com.my

KUALA LUMPUR: The surprise, last-ditch attempt to rally support for the return of Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting as president of the MCA ahead of Saturday's nominations has received the endorsement of party elder, Tan Sri Lim Ah Lek.

This hint of a momentum for Ka Ting came as incumbent president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat announced his candidacy as widely expected, declaring he has no running mates and would work with others to be elected with him.

Ka Ting, on his part, indicated he was mulling over the possibility of a comeback, telling the ntv7 Mandarin news at 5.30pm:

"If I can really help, also for the sake of MCA's future, I will step in...I cannot decide yet. I need to see the situation first."

A major concern within the party is the shape of the eventual victorious line-up. Electing top leaders who cannot work with each other will prolong the already protracted crisis. A key campaign theme will therefore be which line-up best offers a chance of reunification.

The emerging grouping with Ka Ting back as leader, is reportedly supported by groups led by vice-president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai; Ka Ting's brother, the former secretary-general Datuk Ong Ka Chuan; and former deputy president during Ka Ting's reign, Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy.

This new grouping and the declared candidacy of Tee Keat raise the question over the position of Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek and his supporters, among them two vice-presidents — Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen and Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha. Kong, for instance, secured the most votes as a central committee member, a feat he repeated when he stood for vice-president.

Collectively, Dr Chua and his backers retain sizeable support in the party. Dr Chua has been tight-lipped. Asked specifically on Tee Keat's candidacy, he said: "He can announce what he wants. I don't want to talk about the elections."

If this new grouping involving Ka Ting triumphs, a likely scenario is for him to be president for the remaining period of the current term which ends in October next year, after which a younger leader, someone in the mould of Liow, 48, could take over as president. The Ong brothers wield influence in parts of Johor, north Perak, parts of Selangor and could garner some Wanita votes, based on their close association with Wanita chief Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun. Chan, meanwhile, could still count on the support of Pahang delegates.

A party leader who could well figure prominently in the new alignment said the possible return of Ka Ting is to "salvage the party". "Nobody will be sidelined...there will be no more camps," he said. In fact, before Tee Keat's official announcement, there were suggestions in the last 24 hours that he was having second thoughts.

"He's Hainanese, and they are known to be tau fung (unpredictable)," quipped Petaling Jaya Utara division adviser Wong Leong. Saturday's flurry of events began with a press statement issued by the former deputy president Tan Sri Lim Ah Lek at 2pm.

He urged Ka Ting to seriously consider the call to lead again to "save the party" by reuniting members and leaders.

"In fact, I have received numerous appeals from veterans and members of the party as well as from leaders of all races to convey the above voices to Ka Ting.

"I would like to sincerely urge members and leaders at all levels to join me in the call and rally behind Ka Ting to give him our fullest support," said the former MP for Bentong, Pahang.

Another Pahang MCA leader, Senator Ng Fook Heng, too, issued a statement to back Ka Ting. Anticipating resistance from those blaming Ka Ting for the party winning 15 out of 40 parliamentary and 31 out of 90 state seats in the 2008 general election, Ng said the former president had taken responsibility for something "which was actually not his fault totally". Ng is MCA Paya Besar division chairman.

At this juncture, Ka Ting's return can hardly be described as a "shooin". Bukit Gelugor division chairman Datuk Koay Kar Huah said Ka Ting was "obsolete in terms of his political era". However, others like Tebrau chief Teng Boon Soon is with Ka Ting. Even with Ka Ting as a candidate, Dr Chua who commands up to 45 per cent of the 2,400 delegates will be no pushover.

Puchong division vice-chief Datuk Theng Book, a Dr Chua supporter, estimated that the president could only count on a 25 per cent support.

Source: http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/articles/20100314073210/Article/index_html

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wonder......

So a "tau fung"** Hainanese cannot be the President of MCA? 

So coincidently, Secretary- General Wong Foon Meng, Wanita Chief Chew Mei Fun are also Hainanese.....

Wonders..... no wonder is chaotic in MCA now - all "fung" (windss....) 

**"Tau fung" literally translate as head wind - which means crazy

Sembang Kopitiam: (Bahagian 2) Presiden mana yang patut dipilih?

Bahagian 1

Semua sembang kopitiam sahaja... kenyataan di bawah mungkin ada atau tiada kebenaran dan hanya digosipkan melalui sembang-sembang sahaja...

 

Lagi satu faktor menjadi Presiden.... mudah dicapai! Orang lama MCA tidak mahu Presiden yang duduk di opis... dengan air-cond dan kerusi besar... Orang MCA mahu Presiden yang turun padang, makan char kuey teow tepi jalan (bukan hotel 5 bintang) atau beli sayur di pasar (bukan dari hypermarket).. 

Gambar-gambar di atas merupakan gambar profil Facebook OTK, OKT dan CSL. Jika dilihat - sudah pasti orang muda dan rakyat peringkat akar umbi akan memilih OTK sebagai seorang pemimpin yang dekat pada rakyat. OKT masih mengekalkan imej beliau yang berpakaian rasmi dengan tali leher dan kot. CSL pula boleh diterima rakyat dengan gambar profil yang cukup relaks. 

Laman Facebook merupakan laman sosial dan kebanyakan ahli dalam Facebook adalah yang muda dan berpendapatan sederhana ke atas. Jika menggunakan laman LinkedIn, sudah pasti satu imej profesional dan berpakaian rasmi harus digunakan kerana laman LinkedIn itu adalah laman untuk yang profesional dan berpendapatan tinggi ke atas. 

Semasa kempen pilihanraya umum dan pilihanraya parti juga OTK dilihat sebagai calon yang berminda muda, berani dan dinamik dengan pengikutnya berbaju oren. Oren merupakan warna dinamik - namun beliau ditegur oleh pemikir kolot bahawa warna itu tidak serasi dan tidak berjiwa BN. Saudara Ong Tee Keat, warna BN ialah biru gelap! 

Orang lama MCA masih menyokong Chua Soi Lek dan Ong Ka Ting yang sentiasa berpakaian sederhana, mudah didampingi rakyat. Manakala OTK sentiasa berbaju batik dan rasmi. 

Semasa menulis blog ini, berikut adalah data yang didapati dari Facebook.

OTK

Jumlah Rakan: 4,503 orang

Aktiviti Dinding: Setiap Hari

Laman Peminat: Ada - tidak diketahui samada dimiliki dan diuruskan oleh beliau (3,567 peminat)

OKT

Jumlah Rakan: tidak diketahui

Aktiviti Dinding: Tiada

Laman Peminat: Tiada

CSL

Jumlah Rakan: 1,242 orang

Aktiviti Dinding: Tertutup

Laman Peminat: Ada - tidak diketahui samada dimiliki dan diuruskan oleh beliau (316 peminat)

Menarik sekali apabila melihat kejayaan dan kemenangan Obama menjadi Presiden Amerika pertama yang bukan orang putih. Beliau memberi kredit kepada Facebook, Twitter dan laman-laman sosial yang merupakan satu jentera pilihanraya beliau - beliau juga bersetuju bahawa penggunaan laman-laman ini menjimatkan kos dan amat efektif dalam mendekati jiwa rakyat, memahami masalah mereka dan mudah beroperasi melalui Internet. 

Kalau dilihat yang aktif menggunakan sesawang Facebook dan blog - ada ramai dari kem Pakatan Rakyat. Maklumlah, PR tiada modal dan laman-laman web ini mudah dikendalikan. Mungkin OTK juga kehabisan modal, kot? Maklumlah, beliau dikatakan bersih berkilat - mana ada modal untuk menyuapkan wang ke mulut para perwakilan?

Perdana Menteri juga telah mula menggunakan Internet dengan laman 1Malaysia pelbagai bahasa, Facebook dan twitter. Dukacitanya, penggunaan jentera-jentera yang sepatutnya interaktif ini kelihatan seperti interaksi SATU HALA sahaja. Adakah Perdana Menteri mengambil kira beribu-ribu komen, beribu-ribu Retweet, dan beribu-ribu coretan Dinding Facebook beliau. Semasa menaip blog ini, @NajibRazak mempunyai 12,663 pengikut tetapi beliau hanya mengikut 25 akaun Twitter yang lain sahaja. Sejauh mana laman-laman ini dapat digunakan untuk mengutarakan suara rakyat? 

OTK, fikir-fikirkanlah...... 

Orang lama MCA berkata... tidak kiralah Presiden MCA ini berkicau (tweet) atau tidak, mempunyai Facebook atau tidak, asalkan dapat mengutarakan suara bangsa Cina ke Parlimen. Maklumlah, orang lama.... orang tua - mereka juga tiada facebook dan twitter, malah apa itu Internet pun masih bingung! 

Orang muda MCA berkata.... kekadang Presiden-presiden ini memang sibuk belaka. Mudah jika dapat dicapai melalui Internet - capaian jalur lebar (lebar ke sempit entah!) semakin meluas sekarang... Jadi akaun-akaun Facebook menjadi pita ukur. 

Panjanglah sedikit pita ukur OTK, ye? 

Insider MCA turut saksikan... 

Sembang Kopitiam: It's in the MOUTH!!!

Insider MCA notices.... similarity... their MOUTHS! 

LTL, you are out!

Based on the above picture, seems like OKT and OTK mouths are more similar.... 

CSL, maybe you are out, too!

Tee Keat Says He Has No Problem With Ka Ting Contesting Mca Presidency

March 18, 2010 18:16 PM

Tee Keat Says He Has No Problem With Ka Ting Contesting Mca Presidency

KUALA LUMPUR, March 18 (Bernama) -- MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat said he had no problem with former president Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting contesting the presidency in the party elections on March 28.

Tee Keat, who is defending the post, said he had a good relationship with Ka Ting and they had met a day before Ka Ting announced his candidacy.

Speaking to reporters at the lobby of Parliament, he said he did not have any special strategy to garner votes in the elections.

Tee Keat, who is the Transport Minister, said he would have to concentrate on his work at the ministry or people would say that he was not doing his job.

Meanwhile, former vice-president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai called on the elections committee to review the prohibition on former Central Committee (CC) members Datuk Wong Mook Leong and Wong Nai Chee to contest the elections.

He said that based on Article 41 of the party constitution, all CC members should be allowed to re-contest.

"On behalf of the two of them, I appeal to the party's legal bureau to review the decision and allow them to contest," he told reporters at the lobby of Parliament.

Liow, who is the Health Minister, said the elections committee used Article 23 to prevent them from contesting whereas many senior lawyers he consulted stated that only Article 41 should be referred to in re-elections.

"This election is very specific. It has nothing to do with Article 23. It is very specific (Article 41). When it comes to re-elections, only this specific article can be used," he said.

Mook Leong and Nai Chee, both supporters of Liow, had resigned as CC members on March 3 when 21 CC members resigned to force the holding of fresh elections.

In PONTIAN, former vice-president Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha said too many contestants for president would only make things more difficult in the party.

The Housing and Local Government Minister said nevertheless that every CC member was entitled to contest any position.

He was asked about Ka Ting's decision to contest the presidency after he had opened a public transportation complex and presented capitation grants to Johor local councils.

Asked which position he would contest, Kong said: "I will make an announcement soon. I have not made up my mind yet. I am not ruling out anything."

MCA political analysts predict that Kong might go for deputy president.

-- BERNAMA

Source: http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v5/newspolitic.php?id=483458

-----------------------------------------------------

Wonders......

Will he has a problem if CSL contest the presidency, then? Hmmmm.... wonders

He has met OKT the day before OKT announced candidacy... something was being discussed? Insider MCA wonders.... wondering too hard some times... 

Rejection of good candidates angers Ka Siong

THU, 18 MAR 2010 14:23

KUALA LUMPUR: The MCA Youth has chastised its party leaders for deciding to sideline certain candidates from contesting in the March 28 elections, saying the move will jeopardise the future of the party.

"How are we to convince the younger members to join the party if candidates of calibre like Wong Nai Chee are rejected? I find this very disappointing and it now appears to be a plot to purge them," Youth chief Wee Ka Siong said.

He was responding to secretary-general Wong Foon Men's announcement that two former central committee members – Wong Mook Leong and Nai Chee – did not qualify to contest in the upcoming polls.

He said this was not the time for MCA to lose good workers such as Nai Chee who often speaks without fear or favour.

"He (Nai Chee) is committed to the party, he speaks three languages. I cannot understand why the party is rejecting him. I believe the party must look within and decide. We should not discard people who have pledged their commitment and support to the party," he said.

Wee and Women's chief Chew Mei Fun incurred the wrath of MCA leaders when they walked out of a central committee meeting last month after they objected to the CC decision to go ahead with the Youth and women wings' elections amidst the ongoing uncertainties in the party.

Source: http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/fmt-english/politics/barisan-nasional/3464-rejection-of-good-candidates-angers-ka-siong

---------------------------------------

Wonders.......

Does the constitution of MCA prevails... or based on humanity ground or good candidates? Then philanthropist or someone who is kind hearted or calibre.... or maybe speaks more languages can contest in the polls..... 

Sembang Kopitiam: (Bahagian 1) Presiden mana yang patut dipilih?

Semua sembang kopitiam sahaja... kenyataan di bawah mungkin ada atau tiada kebenaran dan hanya digosipkan melalui sembang-sembang sahaja...


Sudahlah..... baru kelmarin ada yang menerima sms bahawa Ong Ka Ting bertanding Presiden MCA atas tiket restu Perdana Menteri..... walaupun OKT telah nafikan apa-apa penglibatan dalam perkara ini, dalam minda warga MCA, beliaulah yang paling "kamching" (amat akrab) dengan UMNO sekarang.... 


Satu faktor penting dalam menilai kelayakan menjadi Presiden adalah keakraban MCA dengan UMNO melalui kedua-dua Presiden parti tersebut. 


Pada mulanya, perwakilan MCA memilih Ong Tee Keat atas sebab beliau lantang bersuara dan cukup berani mengutarakan pendapat dan masalah orang Cina, lebih-lebih lagi beliau dilihat sebagai seorang yang bersih berkilat. Pada masa itu, Ong Ka Ting dilihat sebagai lembab dan kenyataan "perbincangan pintu tertutup" tidak lagi menjadi popular.... Oleh itu, Ong Tee Keat amat diperlukan. Namun, keberanian yang terlampau dan ura-ura ghairah menjadi Menteri Pengangkutan, beliau tersasul dengan "tell-all" (beritahu semua!) tentang PKFZ yang memijak terlalu banyak kaki yang tidak harus dipijak. Kalaulah boleh dilakukan secara "pintu tertutup", kan baik? 


Kini, perwakilan MCA merasakan mereka memerlukan seorang yang cukup berani tetapi tidak perlu terlalu berani. Pada masa itu, pergolakan dengan Chua Soi Lek, CSL la yang dilihat sesuai juga mengambil tempat ini. Maka, dalam EGM ditariklah pergantungan CSL.... Menarik sekali ROS turut meyatakan beliau adalah Timbalan Presiden yang sah. Namun, skandal seks beliau masih bermainan di kepala ramai ketua pemimpin UMNO. PAS juga memerhati - dan akan timbul kontroversi dan dikatakan BN habis modal sehinggakan diva seks boleh menjadi Presiden parti komponen BN. 


Siapalah lagi yang boleh berkerjasama dengan UMNO? Kembalilah bekas Presiden MCA untuk tujuan ini..... 


Pada pendapat orang lama MCA, jika UMNO benar-benar melaungkan slogan Rakyat Didahulukan, Pencapaian Diutamakan... haruslah dilihat Ong Tee Keat menjadi tiket untuk mengembalikan keyakinan rakyat. Jika mahukan jalan pintas untuk menyelesaikan masalah? Ong Ka Ting jawapannya. 


Orang lama berkata.... PM melaung-laungkan tentang kepercayaan, "accountability", bebas rasuah. Sejauh manakah laungan ini disimpan dalam hati atau mainan mulut sahaja? Jika PM benar-benar mahukan negara yang bersih daripada rasuah, sudah tentu harus membantu Ong Tee Keat menyelesaikan dan mendedahkan skandal PKFZ. Tidak kiralah siapa-siapa jadi mangsa nanti - boleh dibereskan, bukan? Cuma, rakyat Malaysia tidak akan percaya yang skandal 12b itu dikepalai oleh 4 ikan bilis kecil... carilah ikan besar sedikit seperti RB!


Ha... kalau begitu, barulah rakyat boleh percaya sedikit. Cayalah Najib pasal anti rasuah. Cayalah Ong Tee Keat - telus dan berani... Cayalah orang Cina terhadap MCA, cayalah juga terhadap BN. Cayalah nanti pilihanraya akan menang besar dalam tangan BN. Caya sama lu la!!


Sekarang tidak, PKFZ ditutup, Ong Tee Keat berkata bahawa tidak dapat didedahkan kerana nyawa beliau berada dalam bahaya, PM tidak pernah membantu bersuara atau mengutarakan apa-apa pandangan, 108 soalan Lim Kit Siang (klik sini) tak pernah terjawab. Manalah orang Cina nak percaya MCA, nak caya sama PM, nak caya sama 1Malaysia? Puui... tambah seorang lagi orang lama MCA...


Orang lama kini sedang memerhati.... Ong Ka Ting menjadi Presiden - itulah episod terakhir bangsa Cina - bangsa yang sentiasa menjadi pengikut, bangsa yang sentiasa tunduk pada Abang Besar UMNO dan bangsa yang tiada pendirian. 


Orang lama juga sedang memerhati - Ong Tee Keat menjadi Presiden - dapatlah diselamatkan kepercayaan dan keyakinan rakyat Cina sedikit tetapi mampukah beliau menerajui parti politik Cina itu... 


Insider MCA saksikan bersama.... 

Kopitiam Talks: Farewell, Ong Tee Keat

Insider MCA sat with many MCA elderly members as well as listened to kopitiam talks.... answering the below questions... as usual in blue (remember, all hearsay below:) 

Source: http://www.mysinchew.com/node/30184

2009-10-13 18:08

1. Who has brought down Ong Tee Keat?

A. Central delegates
B. Chua Soi Lek
C. Fengshui master
D. Himself

Straight answer could be himself.... but if Insider MCA is correct - he was used by the taiko of third force and when he knew he was being used, he retained his seat to oppose the results of the EGM

2. Who are the "third force"?

A. The dejected in MCA
B. Opportunists
C. Veterans
D. The righteous in MCA

The current come-back savior - is already obvious it is planned.... 

3. Why did supporters of Ong and Chua underestimate the strength of the "third force"?

A. Overconfident
B. Didn't know the election mathematics
C. Failed to fathom the complexity of human nature
D. Didn't know the political game

They did not know the real taiko (big brother) behind the third force yet 

4. Which master did Ong Tee Keat trust most?

A. Master Hsing Yun
B. Fengshui master
C. Fortune teller
D. Campaign strategist

Crap! He only trusted himself

5. What's the best way to define the Ong Tee Keat spirit?

A. A man who fears no evil
B. A man of big courage but little strategy
C. A man who fights tooth and nail with rivals
D. A man who's bold to speak his heart and sacrifice

Insider MCA really agrees with B.... he has the biggest courage ever - no other Presidents have it... but lack strategies.... buck up! Most of his supporters will be choosing D but he has not sacrificed yet and let's see if he will ever reveal the PKFZ after elected President. 

6. How should MCA remember Ong Tee Keat?

A. The president with a flair of language
B. The president who died a premature death
C. The president who warmed up the seat for his successor
D. The president who served eight days short of a year

Insider MCA says A but many decline to comment 

7. Feelings after watching the MCA drama:

A. Totally captivating. Is there a sequel?
B. Curses begin to fly as applause die down
C. Beginning with tragedy, followed by an utterly boring mid-play but a happy ending
D. Watch out for Part II

D.... the part II has just being unfolded...

8. A lesson for future presidents?

A. Don't ever allow an EGM
B. Beware of "third force"
C. Don't get carried away by fengshui masters, fortune tellers or strategists
D. Make peace always (By TAY TIAN YAN/Translated by DOMINIC LOH/Sin Chew Daily)

B.... OTK seems to have known about the third force and mentioned it before the EGM.... but nothing has been done, Insider MCA wonders?