Ong: We succeed through unity
(The Star) Malaysia has earned a reputation as a nation whose people are deeply respectful and concerned about one another.
MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat said while other nations struggled with their diversity, Malaysians embraced their multi-racial and multi-cultural society.
“Our rights are defined by wider obligations, such as respecting each other’s choices and beliefs.
“The spirit of mutual concern and respect – not just mere tolerance – guarantees our freedom as enshrined in our Federal Constitution and the Rukunegara,” he said.
“This is the foundation of our Malaysian democracy and defines a Malaysia that is civilised and decent,” Ong said in his Merdeka message posted on his blog yesterday.
He added that a united and courageous MCA would be fearless in speaking out and acting for this interest and freedom.
“We will champion the rights of not only the Chinese community but those of all Malaysians. We are committed to the spirit of 1Malaysia.
“It is our belief that Barisan Nasional exemplifies this mission.”
Ong said a strong Barisan did not only champion 1Malaysia but it reflected the ethos of working together by treating each of its component party members as equals.
“Make no mistake. We may be passionate when we dissent – and sometimes fiery too – but it does not mean that we are disloyal.
“Barisan Nasional embraces pluralism of views. There are forces that pull us apart but we respond as one, pulling together and working for all Malaysians,” said Ong, who is also Transport Minister.
He said the common agenda for all Malaysians, such as maintaining jobs, fighting crime and creating educational opportunities, formed part of MCA’s three thrusts.
The thrusts are tackling the economy, being involved in mainstream policy-making and ensuring inter-ethnic harmony.
“This unity is the core of our success in many fields and should be harnessed. It is the key to becoming one people, one nation and 1Malaysia.”
Ong said that during Tun Tan Cheng Lock’s time, the spirit of Merdeka meant that the Chinese were no longer “passengers” but were in Malaysia to build their homes and the nation.
“Thence, Malaysians, regardless of race or religion, fought, built the economy and the country together,” he said, adding however that the nation still has room for improvement and efforts must continue amid the economic liberalisation.
