Chua: The verdict is still open on Chinese support for Barisan
(The Star) – IT is an open question whether the Chinese will vote for the Opposition because recent events have shown a reversal of the trend from the last general election, said MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek. “The verdict is still open this time around as to whether the Chinese will come back to vote for Barisan (Nasional) or they (will still) vote for DAP.
“The Chinese voted DAP (in 2008) because DAP kept promoting a self-perpetuating lie that the Chinese are very angry with the Government and they have no choice but to vote for DAP.
“But most Chinese who are businessmen, traders and hawkers are also very concerned over bread and butter issues and progress, and for this BN stands tall, way above Pakatan (Rakyat),” Dr Chua told The Star.
He also noticed a “positive change” in the attitude of the Chinese towards the MCA and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
Citing the MCA’s nine mega dinners, Dr Chua said the party had initially targeted just 5,000 people per dinner but the response was overwhelming.
“I am surprised but cautious. Prior to this, the people had also been receptive to our roadshows where we provide services like free medical screening.
“As for the mega dinners, each guest had to pay RM30 for food and listen to political speeches and nothing else.
“This shows the people still have hope in MCA and just want to confirm certain things,” he said.
He reminded the Chinese voters that Malaysia was a multi-racial country and there was a need to “strike a balance as the country does not belong to any one race”.
Dr Chua said the Chinese community must not let their “anger” over perceived discrimination and injustices, which had been stoked by the Opposition, to cloud their judgment.
“Do not destroy the (present) Government unless you are very sure you can vote in a better government,” he said.
“But look at the four Pakatan-ruled states. The Chinese can see that their perception that Pakatan is fairer to the community is wrong.”
