THE
GUARDIAN
Visit MCA Online at www.mca.org.my
July 2003
(For Members Only)
DR LING, A BORN LEADER
DR LING
EXPLAINS IT ALL - A DAY AFTER
GIVING UP HIS POST
INTERVIEW PG5
MCA’s Smooth
CHANGE OF GUARD
Lim and Dr Ling before the CC meeting The new MCA deputy president and President
Sacrifice and Goodwill for Party’s Unity
M
ay 23 2003 marks another
cornerstone in the history of MCA
when Party President Datuk Seri Dr Ling
Liong Sik and his deputy Datuk Seri Lim
Ah Lek announced their resignations,
paving way for the younger generation
to take over the party leadership. Prior to
that, speculations were rift as political
analysts made their predictions in the
press and Internet on the impending
change.
A few reporters were already
at the MCA headquarters at 8.30 a.m. on
that day, hoping to get a scoop. By 10.30
a.m., the Pressroom and 9th floor foyer
were packed with party supporters,
reporters, photographers and cameramen.
Major newspapers and news agencies
send in a few of their reporters to cover
the Central Committee meeting. Every
movement outside the corridor of the
Council Chamber was closely watched
as photographers positioned themselves
to get the best shot of the day.
Before the Central Committee
Meeting began at noon, many MCA
leaders gathered at the President’s room
adjoined to the Council Chamber.
Emotions ran high, as they knew that Dr
Ling would be tendering his resignation
at the meeting. Some leaders were seen
asking Dr Ling to reconsider his decision.
Being the leader that he was, he listened
to them although he had already made
his decision. Even MIC President Datuk
Seri S. Samy Vellu called to confirm if
he was resigning. Putting down the
phone, Dr Ling told everyone that the call
was from Samy Vellu. “He promised to
Continued on page 20
1
A graduate from the University of
Singapore in 1966, Datuk Seri Dr Ling
was an ex-president of the Singapore
Students Union and also president of
the Malaysian Rugby Union. A
sentimentalist, Dr Ling loves to share
his experiences as a student at the
Royal Military college in Kuala
Lumpur back in the 1960s – from the
prominent people who graduated with
him to his train journeys back to his
hometown in Taiping and life in
College. His liking and interest for
people from all walks of life is also
reflected in many ways. For instance,
he always takes the opportunity to
introduce foreigners to the multiethnic hawker food in Malaysia,
including bringing them to the hawker
centres. Dr Ling is also known for his
“elephant memory”, which many
attributed to his medical training and
also his stamina that which saw him
crisscrossing the country attending to
his ministerial work and duties.
Perhaps the driving force behind him
is his belief regarding “today as always
better than yesterday and tomorrow
better than today.” This philosophy
was evident when the party under Dr
Ling’s leadership implemented
several major education programmes
since the early 90s – from the
Langkawi Project to promote
education excellence among the poor
in particular, to raising funds for
Chinese schools and finally to the
setting up of UTAR.
- Adapted from the STAR -
EDITORIAL
BOARD
Note from the
Publicity Bureau
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Datuk Wong See Wah
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FOOD FOR
THOUGHT
G
uardian greets you a warm welcome after a lapse of four years
with a new and fresh layout.
This issue is timely for two reasons. First, the MCA has
just successfully undergone a change of guard and second, the party
is gearing itself all up for the coming general elections.
Unity in the party has never been more important and it is
hoped that all members would unite and rally strongly behind newly
elected MCA President Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting and his deputy
Datuk Chan Kong Choy. It is heartening to note that MCA leaders
and members had responded very positively to the change in
leadership with pledges to close ranks and to strengthen the party.
We need to gauge our strengths and remember the aspirations of
our founding fathers as we continue serving the community and
country. Threats of our very own existence from within and outside
the party are real. But with a united team, we would move on
stronger and wiser, overcoming obstacles and challenges that have
been placed before us.
Guardian pays its highest tribute to immediate past
President Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik who led MCA for 17
glorious years. The party has achieved much under the wise and
capable leadership of Dr Ling. Not forgetting too the contributions
of former deputy president Datuk Seri Lim Ah Lek. The absence
of both party elders from the MCA leadership would be felt by all
of us but their sacrifices, goodwill and contributions would never
be forgotten.
It is hoped that the Guardian would be the “Voice of the
MCA” where party leaders and members could channel their views
concerning any issues in the MCA and the country. We hope that
we could in a way contribute to the healthy mental evolution of
the Malaysian Chinese that are caring, concerned, well informed
and politically mature.
As this newsletter belongs to MCA members, we would
like to welcome contributions and even comments. Feedback from
readers would help us to improve our contents. Your stories, event
notification, letters, articles, pictures, snippets, drawings and news
would give the newsletter a better coverage.
Lastly, I would like to thank the contributors, comprising
of a young and talented team for a job well done.
Thank you and happy reading!
Hold faithfulness and
sincerity as first
principles
- Confucius - The
Confucian Analects
Datuk Wong See Wah
2
DATUK SERI ONG KA TING
Ong K
a Ting a ca
pa
ble leader lik
ed b
y man
y
Ka
capa
pab
liked
by
many
Party members, the BN and Malaysians welcomed
the election of Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting as the
Ninth President of MCA on 23 May 2003.
Dedicated, humble, easygoing but stern, MCA
President Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting had won much
admiration from the grassroots within MCA and
the Barisan Nasional. As a Minister and MCA
leader, Ong has proven his capabilities with his
meticulous handling, planning and negotiation
skills in many situations and scenarios.
oming a long way in both life and MCA, Datuk
Seri Ong Ka Ting from an early age realised
that education, hard work and perseverance
were tools that would empower him to
overcome obstacles in life. Ong’s ability to
withstand difficulty was evident when his father died when
he was eight, leaving his mother to fend for her eleven children
by tapping rubber in a nearby village.
C
Recalling his childhood, Ong says his mother starts her
day very early in the morning, cooking a large pot of porridge,
frying some groundnuts and tapioca leaves for Ong and his
10 other siblings before leaving the house to tap rubber. “That
would be our breakfast, lunch and tea, for as long as I could
remember. Mother would only cook rice for dinner, and
leftover rice would be the next day’s breakfast,” said Ong.
To make ends meet, Ong tapped rubber and harvested tobacco
leaves. During his university days, he gave tuition to help pay
fees as he did not have much money. “These experiences
enabled me to persevere the many difficulties in life,” said
Ong.
Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting realised that education,
hard work and perseverence were tools that
would empover him to overcome obstacles in life
the Parliamentary secretaries for the Ministries of Health and
Home Affairs before being promoted as a Deputy Minister of
Home Affairs in 1995. His stint at the Home Ministry where
classified documents on national security was daily reading
helped him to “engage his mind than his mouth,” described
one party leader.
Ong who did his form six in TAR College began his
political journey in MCA after graduating from University of
Malaya with a Bachelor of Science degree and a diploma in
Education. After a brief stint as a Mathematics teacher, Ong
dedicated his young adult life to the MCA. His political career
started when he was appointed press secretary and later political
secretary to Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik. In the early 1990s
Ong became MCA headquarters’ Chief Administrative
Director handling the party’s administrative affairs.
In 1999, Ong was promoted to become a full-fledged
minister heading the Ministry of Housing and Local
Government. Since taking over the position from Datuk Seri
Dr Ting Chew Peh (now Tan Sri), he had been responsible
for many reforms on matters under the purview of his Ministry.
During an interview recently, Ong took pains to explain the
things that he had implemented since taking on as Minister.
The first was the Town and Country Act Amendments where
guidelines were drawn to ensure that all town developments
would allocate land for recreational purposes for the public.
The Ministry also revamped the Housing Development Act
to safeguard house buyer’s interests. Under the Act, a Housing
Ong ran for general election and won the Pontian
parliamentary seat in the 1990 general elections. He was later
3
“Never let poverty freeze your mind or you spirit”
- Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting -
safeguard the Chinese community’s
interest, which the MCA represents.
Dedicated, humble, easygoing but
stern
Tribunal was set up to settle buyer’s
disputes without having the trouble
of making legitimate claims in court.
Due to the number of cases
involving loan sharks, the Money
Lenders Act 1959 was revamped
entirely recently to give better
protection to borrowers. Some of the
changes in the amendments
included empowering the police to
arrest those involved in unlicensed
or illegal loans. The Ministry also
allocated more than RM 150 million
for the past three years to work on
the infrastructure of small villages.
Currently, the Ministry is also
looking into the best ways to threat
solid waste, which has been causing
problems to the community. Other
than that, strategies to simplify
house-buying procedures are
currently underway.
Since elected president, unity and
closing ranks between all ranks and
file in the party had been Ong’s
priority. Likening the party to an
aquarium, he said MCA members are
like fishes in the aquarium. “If one
fish defecates in the aquarium, all will
die together in the polluted water.”
He believes that the MCA need to be
strong and united in order to
A careful leader, Ong is known
not to jump into the bandwagon
when others are making publicity
stunts. He rather gets a clearer
understanding of the whole issue
before putting forth his comments.
His public debates based on facts
rather than personal attacks had
earned him much respect from his
opponents. Although approachable,
he is stern and meticulous. He does
not tolerate nonsense from others and
knows when to put his foot firmly
on the ground. The issue of the poison
letter accusing Ong of links with
triads was a classic example. He was
upset but was true to his conscience
by reporting the matter to the police.
The recent minor Cabinet
reshuffle appointing Datuk Chan
Kong Choy as Transport Minister
speaks volumes of how Ong handled
the party, albeit, a period of just over
one month. Leaders aligned to the
now defunct Team A and B were
appointed to positions in the Cabinet
and the MCA had an additional post
for deputy-minister. It was a respite
from all the infighting and a big boost
for the party. This had been possible,
as there was sincerity and goodwill
in the highest party echelon. Ong was
confident when he chaired his first
Central Committee meeting on June
13. Goodwill and good discussions
prevailed at that meeting and with all
party leaders making commitments
to close ranks and unite, MCA
members can be assured that the party
is in good hands under the capable
leadership of Datuk Seri Ong Ka
Ting.
Lim, Ling, Ong and Chan at a MCA
function
Ka Ting chaired his first
Central Committee meeting
on June 13
Ong participates actively in community events
LIM ENG LEONG
Caring Ong is always by his mother’s side
4
Ne
w c
halleng
es
New
challeng
hallenges
for
NEW TEAM
T
he challenges facing the new MCA leadership
are more complex than those faced by Datuk
Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik when the latter took over the
helm, argues DR HENG PEK KOON.
Globalisation and Islamic resurgence present
Malaysian Chinese with new vulnerabilities.
I
n this year of transition for Malaysian
politics, the MCA marked a historic watershed on May 23.
Chan and Ong have both pledged to work
Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik’s statesman-like transference of
together in the best interest of the party
power to Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting not only ensured a smooth
leadership transition for a party wracked by faction fighting government, have seriously crimped its ability to articulate
over the last 17 months, but it also positioned the MCA well Chinese interests as openly and forcefully as Chinese-based
for UMNO’s power transition in October when Datuk Seri opposition parties such as the DAP and the Gerakan (before
Abdullah Ahmad Badawi will succeed Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir the latter joined the Barisan government). Even though Tan
Mohamad as Malaysia’s Prime Minister and Umno president. Siew Sin, party president from 1961 to 1974, actively advanced
New president Ong and his new deputy, Datuk Chan Chinese business interests in his capacity as Finance Minister,
Kong Choy, confront a political landscape that is radically that feat in itself failed to arrest the MCA’s declining popularity.
different from that faced by the party’s founders 54 years ago.
The trauma of the May 13, 1969, race riots and
At that time, the foremost task was to define the political, implementation of the New Economic Policy lowered Chinese
economic and cultural roles that Chinese would
expectations even further. The MCA regained
play in the new Malayan nation state. Despite
The MCA’s immediate task is some political footing by focusing on realistic
the momentous achievement of obtaining
to strengthen party unity to objectives, particularly those affecting Chinese
citizenship based on jus soli for non-Malays ensure
a
credible education. Tan Sri Lee San Choon, party
by MCA founding fathers – Tun Tan Cheng performance in the next president from 1974 to 1983, navigated the
Lock, Tun Tan Siew Sin and Tun Dr Lim general election
party through the most challenging period of
Chong Eu – the party was widely criticised
the NEP, one in which Chinese avenues for
for failing to secure the recognition of
economic advancement, as well as educational, cultural and
Mandarin as an official language and the abolition of Malay political expression were seriously curtailed. Lee’s unexpected
special rights.
resignation and failure to provide a clear succession precipitated
However, these concessions lay well beyond the ambit of what a bitter and acrimonious 20-month-long power struggle between
UMNO was willing to concede to non-Malays. As far as rival factions led by Datuk Dr Neo Yee Pan and Tan Koon
UMNO was concerned, Malay special rights were completely Swan. The virulence of the leadership slugfest generated
non-negotiable since that privilege was already enshrined in widespread Chinese disapproval, and the MCA’s image
the Malayan Federation Constitution of 1948. Thus, citizenship plummeted to a historic low when Tan was arrested on charges
for non-Malays became a pragmatic trade-off for acceptance of illegal business practices soon after he bested Neo to become
of Malay cultural dominance: recognition of Malay as the sole party president.
national language and Islam as the official religion.
In the wake of these serious setbacks, Dr Ling took over a
The constitutional limits set on Chinese aspirations party that was rudderless and demoralised. His immediate
by the Merdeka bargain and the party’s desire to participate in agenda was to rebuild party unity, rehabilitate its reputation,
the Alliance and, after 1971, the Barisan Nasional coalition and respond anew to Chinese economic and education concerns.
Dr Ling’s unique contribution in the education field was to
gain Umno approval for the MCA to operate a private university,
Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman. In addition, his unflagging
and hugely effective fundraising campaign for TARC has
resulted in the opening of a third campus, with two more
campuses planned for the near future.
The “Unity Team” put in place by Dr Ling and former
deputy Datuk Seri Lim Ah Lek brings together their respective
5
protégés from the rival factions they had earlier headed. Both
Ong and Chan bring solid credentials to their new jobs. Their
working class origins and Chinese-education background are
indispensable assets in a party dominated by Chinese-educated
members from middle and lower income groups. In addition,
their complementary character traits reinforce their effectiveness
as a team: while Ong is more the strategic thinker, Chan is a
stronger administrator and policy implementer.
Their fluency in English and
Malay, and the high-profile government
jobs they have held – Ong is currently
Minister of Housing and Local
Government, and Chan is Deputy Finance
Minister – have given them access to
constituencies well beyond the usual
parochial confines of MCA party politics.
A full generation junior to Dr Ling, they
are more attuned to the mindset and
aspirations of younger Malaysian Chinese. Last, but not least,
both enjoy good relations with top UMNO leaders, a prerequisite
of effective Chinese leadership in Malaysia.
The challenges faced by Ong and Chan are more
complex than those faced by Dr Ling when he took over in
1986. Over the last two decades, the Chinese proportion of the
Malaysian population has declined from one-third to onequarter. At the same time, the impact of globalisation and Islamic
resurgence present Malaysian Chinese with new vulnerabilities,
as evidenced by the Asian financial crisis and PAS’ call for an
Islamic Malaysian state based on syariah law.
The MCA’s immediate task is to strengthen party unity
to ensure a credible performance in the next general election,
expected in mid-2004. For the Barisan, getting the Chinese
vote will be as crucial then as it was in 1999 when, due to a
sharp fall-off in Malay support for UMNO, it retained its twothirds parliamentary majority on the back of the non-Malay
vote. The new leaders should ramp up the party’s electoral
odds through more effective mobilisation of the Chinese female
vote. Wanita MCA members already made up 37% of the
party’s 900,000 total membership in 2001, larger than the allmale youth wing’s share of 32%.
Chinese educationists and their supporters expect the MCA to
strongly defend the existence of a distinct Chinese schooling
system, from state-funded Chinese primary schools and private
Chinese secondary schools to the MCA-operated colleges
(TARC and UTAR).
The abysmally low level of Chinese enrolment in
Malay-medium national primary schools – less than three per
cent of the total intake of first year primary school students in
2001 – attests to the persistent salience of
Chinese education as a top-priority
Chinese political issue. Unfortunately, the
concentration of Chinese in Chinese
primary schools has impeded socialisation
across ethnic lines, thus further
complicating the task of nation building.
In the belief that common English usage
would narrow the Malay and non-Malay
inter-personal gap – as well as give young
Malaysians a competitive edge in a global economy dominated
by English-speaking interests – Dr Mahathir has made English
the language of instruction in Mathematics and Science in all
schools. Although the MCA initially backed Chinese
educationalists in resisting the measure, the new leaders wisely
supported a compromise where both Mandarin and English
are used in teaching those subjects.
Given the fact that young Malaysian Chinese are more
fluent in Chinese and Malay than in English, it is entirely
appropriate and (politically advantageous) to help them gain
increased fluency in the dominant language of global commerce
and higher education. With regard to Chinese business interests,
the new team needs to ensure that Malaysian Chinese
businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises, as well
as Malaysian Chinese professionals, have unimpeded access
to opportunities opened up by globalisation. Even under the
NEP, Malaysian entrepreneurs have shown great resilience and
versatility in their ability to succeed domestically and to network
internationally. The MCA should capitalise on these hardearned entrepreneurial skills to help them capture a greater share
of the global market, particularly in China. Most importantly,
the new leaders must deal effectively with the issue of resurgent
Islam in the country. Both UMNO and PAS have presented
Malaysians with different visions of a Malaysian Islamic state.
The new MCA leaders must remain alert to the fateful
consequences of moves toward an Islamic-centred Malaysian
nation state such as that articulated by PAS. Should our country
reach a stage where there is serious discussion of re-negotiating
the 1957 Merdeka Bargain within an Islamic framework, the
new MCA leadership must be prepared to intercede forcefully
to safeguard bedrock non-Muslim political, economic, cultural
and religious interests.
MCA leaders must remain alert to the fateful
consequences of moves toward an Islamic-centred
Malaysian nation state such as that articulated by PAS
Malay women have played a central role in buttressing
UMNO’s electoral appeal and the new MCA team would
similarly benefit from more skilful courting of Malaysian
Chinese women, and more strategic utilisation and mobilisation
of their political resources and skills. The MCA new leaders
should also demonstrate their appreciation of female party
workers and the causes they represent by promoting women to
more leadership positions within the party.
In the area of Chinese education, the new team has to
reconcile the contending priorities of Chinese educationists with
the heavy stress on English in the latest Umno education agenda.
Dr Heng Pek Koon is Assistant Professor at the School
of International Services, American University,
Washington. She is author of ‘Chinese Politics in
Malaysia: A history of the MCA’, Oxford University
Press, 1988. - STAR 6
AINS IT ALL
DR LING LIONG SIK EXPL
EXPLAINS
- A DAY AFTER GIVING UP HIS POST
back to Labis. My voters have been
supportive and kind. I can now go back
more often to meet them and help assist
the with their problems.
The MCA Council Chamber was filled
with party supporters, cameraman and
reporters who were eager to hear more
from Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik, a day
after he tendered in his resignation after
serving the party for 17 years as president.
Looking relaxed and calm, Dr Ling
explained his decision.
What are your plans after stepping down
from the top party post?
Firstly, I enjoy the sense of relief. I haven’t
given thought to what I want to do in the
future. I first started off as a doctor. My
second career was a politician. Now that I
am fading out of the political scene, I will have an opportunity
to develop a third career. I would spend some time to think
about my third career.
Do you see a United MCA with the change in the leadership?
All MCA members share one heart and one vision. The
objectives of the party have not changed and its culture will not
change. With the two party leaders fading away, it gives a chance
for the emergence of a new and dynamic breed.
I am happy today there has been continuous dialogue
and will be able to build a bridge between the two factions in
the party. With the efforts of all members and leaders who
recognise the need for unity and cohesion, I am very confident
they will succeed.
Were you pressured to leave office?
Once you have a succession in place, it is time to go. In fact,
members were pressuring me not to go. But once you make up
your mind, you go.
What is the focus of the party now.
Our first hurdle is the general election, which cannot go beyond
2004. After that, only the party elections. We must focus but
not over-focus.
How about the entire peace plan by Prime Minister Datuk
Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad?
We share the aspirations of the Prime Minister and therefore
all steps taken are towards bringing back unity to the party.
What are your feelings about your term as president?
I had good times as well as bad times. Nevertheless, all are
good experiences and I have enjoyed every moment of it.
Will you contest in the next party elections due in 2005.
No, I would not contest in the next party elections. It is important
to get our acts together to face the general elections and help
the Barisan Nasional as we did in 1995 and 1999, to have another
resounding victory.
What is your top priority?
Education had been my first priority. I feel happy that the party’s
education master plan is almost completed with Universiti
Tunku Abdul Rahman. MCA, as an organisation, is also
diversified and healthy. The Tunku Abdul Rahman College is
also doing well with an enrolment of over 30,000 and more
than 100,000 have graduated from the college.
Is the transition, put in place one year ago, to let Deputy
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to
have a new batch of leaders when he takes over as Prime
Minister?
The party crisis subsided when Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman
came in where the energy of the vast majority of members and
the community went towards making it a dream come true.
Serious discussion on the power transition took place about a
month ago and I am glad it has culminated in a successful
ending.
Are you contesting in the coming general election?
I am not contesting in the next general election. But now that I
have resigned from the president’s post, I have more time to go
7
“I am going with sense of tremendous happiness and gratitude. I thank
all my colleagues for their co-operation in all my 32 years in the MCA
central committee, including 17 years as party president”
- Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik -
depositors were crying for help. With the help of the
Government, MCA leaders and friends, I managed to resolve
all these problems. Today, MCA is debt-free, the Star is healthy
and well diversified as a media company and also moving into
education.
In politics or any organisation, succession is very
important. Right through my political life, I always encouraged
leadership at all levels to train and identify successors. Once
we are sure they are ready, we should step aside and let them
take over. In MCA, we have purposely promoted young, bright
and potential leaders. I am grateful to the central committee,
Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting and Datuk Chan Kong Choy, because
the two leaders had given me very close co-operation at the
final stage of the power transition.
We all were very quiet about it and nobody discovered
the planning. We had a few secret meetings. We ate char koay
teow and gado gado while exchanging views and giving advice.
Therefore, when it finally took place, people asked us why it
was so sudden. If we had made it public early, there was the
chance of somebody scuttling it.
Therefore, we did it secretly and constructively. I am
grateful to the central committee for their unanimous
endorsement of the plan. I handed a healthy and able
organisation to the right person. I am going with a sense of
tremendous happiness and gratitude. I thank all my colleagues
for the fruitful co-operation. Now that I am retiring, I have no
regrets at all.
Now, with Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, I want
to thank the Government for approving the setting up of the
university and providing a launching grant. The Prime Minister
has also promised a government hospital to be turned into a
teaching hospital for UTAR when it sets up its medical faculty.
At the recent enrolment of UTAR, it crossed the 3,000 mark
compared to a few hundred students when it opened its doors a
year ago. UTAR is running out of space, but we will not deny
deserving students a place and use our resources to
accommodate them.
One of the most satisfying things for me is being able
to help students from the 60 Independent Schools in the country.
UTAR recognised their United Examination Certificate and
these students can now study in UTAR. This marks a new
beginning for the students. People from all walks of life who
contribute towards the building of UTAR are another source of
tremendous satisfaction for me. We have collected more than
RM190mil for UTAR.
When did you join the MCA?
Hmm ... I cannot remember the exact date. But it was in
Butterworth, I think it was either 1968 or 69. Tan Sri Lee San
Choon made me the Penang party secretary after meeting me
for the first time. After that, he told me that Tun Tan Siew Sin
wanted to see me because he had recommended me to join the
central committee. Can you imagine how a young 27-year-old
medical officer would feel taking a flight to Kuala Lumpur to
have lunch with the MCA president?
What are your feelings now after helming the party for so
long?
I am going with a sense of tremendous happiness and gratitude.
I thank all my colleagues for their co-operation in all my 32
years in the MCA central committee, including 17 years as
party president. We have had good and not so good times. But
I have enjoyed every single moment of those days.
I am 60 now and I joined the Government in 1976. I
was first elected as an MP in 1974 and spent 27 years in the
highest chambers of the Government. For this, I am very grateful
and I leave with a sense of happiness for having been in national
service for so long.
I was also given the opportunity to serve under two
Prime Ministers; Tun Hussein Onn and Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir
Mohamad. It is a tremendous pleasure and experience serving
under a great PM – Dr Mahathir. Working under him, learning
all he teaches us, his understanding, thinking, vision and
foresight. This is another factor that gave me tremendous
gratitude, pride and happiness.
When I first took over the party leadership, it was
almost bankrupt and Star Publications was almost gone. MCA
was also having problems whereby hundreds of thousands of
(The Prime Minister has since accepted Dr Ling’s
resignation as Transport Minister)
8
NEWS IN BRIEF
Compiled by Ngoo Yee Jin
New appointments in the Cabinet
MCA leaders not linked to triads
MCA leaders are proven not linked to triads. The
police had interviewed several witnesses following allegations
of party members’ involvement in secret societies and found
no evidence. Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting said that it is clear that
MCA is a party free from unhealthy activities. “If there are
members who are involved in such activities without the
knowledge of the leaders, the law will prevail,” he said.
MCA to seek fair share, says Dr Ting
Datuk Chan Kong Choy was appointed as Transport
Minister while Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen the deputy finance
minister II in a minor Cabinet reshuffle on June 24. Other
appointments involving the MCA include: Deputy Culture, Arts
and Tourism Minister: Datuk Fu Ah Kiow, Deputy Information
Minister: Datuk Donald Lim Siang Chai Parliamentary
Secretary to the Ministry of International Trade and Industry:
Datuk Ir Ho Cheong Sing.
Under a recently concluded constituency delineation
exercise, a total of 219 parliamentary and 567 state seats are up
for grabs. MCA has expressed hope that, as the second largest
component party in the Barisan Nasional, it will be given a
reasonable share of the additional 25 parliamentary and 63 state
constituencies for the coming general election. Party secretarygeneral Tan Sri Dr Ting Chew Peh said the MCA president
would hold negotiations in private with the Barisan chief over
the allocation of seats.
Ling appointed MCA Honorary Life President
Terengganu aborts plan to acquire Temple land
Immediate past president Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong
Sik has been appointed an Honorary Life President of MCA in
appreciation of his services, loyalty, sacrifices and leadership.
Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting made the announcement after chairing
his first CC meeting on June 13. MCA’s fifth president Tan Sri
Lee San Choon was also conferred the title after he left office.
Apart from the appointment, Dr Ling was also
conferred the title “Tunku Abdul Rahman College’s Father of
Development”. The Central Committee also retained Dr Ling
as Chairman of the UTAR Council.
The PAS-led Terengganu government has backed
down from acquiring a piece of land belonging to the Thean
Hou Temple, a 100-year-old Chinese temple in Kuala
Terengganu following strong opposition from the local Chinese
community and the state MCA. The state government caused
an uproar from the Chinese community when it announced
that the Thean Hou Temple, which is owned by the Hai Nan
Association, would have to give way to an urban beautification
project.
Dr Ting and others conferred PSM
Kajang pork stalls issue settled
In conjunction with the Yang diPertuan Agong
Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin’s birthday recently, MCA secretarygeneral Datuk Seri Dr Ting Chew Peh was conferred the
Panglima Setia Mahkota (PSM) which carries the title ‘Tan
Sri’. Besides that, Penang MCA Chairman Datuk Dr Sak Cheng
Lum and UTAR president Datuk Dr Ng Lay Swee were also
the PSM recipients.
The Kajang Municipal Council has been directed by
the Selangor State Government not to close down any open-air
pork stalls under its jurisdiction. State Executive Councilor
Datuk Ch’ng Toh Eng wrote to Deputy Menteri Besar Datuk
Zainal Abidin Ahmad on the matter and led a delegation of the
affected stall owners to visit the Deputy Menteri Besar. The
open-air pork stalls at the wet market in Sungai Long, Taman
Murni amd 11th mile Cheras were forced to close down in
April. With the directive from the Selangor State Government,
the issue had been settled.
Three term tenure of office proposed
A resolution would be tabled at the coming 50th
General Assembly to limit the term of office of the President,
the National Youth chairman and National Wanita MCA
chairperson to a maximum of three terms. Details of the
resolution would be worked out by the MCA Constitution
Review Committee chaired by Tan Sri Dr Ting Chew Peh.
Traders and residents of
Taman Murni gathering
around Ch’ng to find out the
fate of pork traders there
9
NEWS ON
Compiled by Lavonne Cheah
“No one will profit by a single sen from UTAR. It is a charitable organisation meant to benefit the younger
generation, especially to allow more bright students from under-privileged families to further their
education”
Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik
Golf tournaments raises funds for UTAR
T
he Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman
(UTAR) building fund received
RM880,000 May 19, following a charity
golf tournament organised by the Kedah
MCA. More than 130 golfers took part in
the tournament at the Cinta Sayang Golf
and Country Club in Sungai Petani.
UTAR Chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ling
Liong Sik said he was touched by the
response towards the fund which had
received contributions from people from
various races and all walks of life.
Corporate members have also rallied
behind a fund-raising drive for the
Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)
and raised a total of RM3.88mil over a
round of charity golf held at the Mines
Country and Golf Resort on May 28. The
event, themed UTAR Golfathon, was
graced by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong
Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Syed Putra
Jamalullail. It made history when the
Malaysia Book of Records certified the
event as being the “highest fund raised in
a charity golf event.”
Jointly organised by the MCA
Economic Bureau and MCA Federal
The King (fourth from left) witnessing the
cheque presentation ceremony. On stage
with him are Dr Ling (left), Ong (third
from left), Dr Fong (second from right)
and Datuk Tan Chai Ho (right)
Territory, the event saw the participation of
nearly 200 people. Datuk Dr Fong Chan
Onn, who chairs the Economic Bureau, said
more corporate members had wanted to
take part but due to limited flights available
for the two sessions of golf on the same
day, some interested participants were
turned away. The event was teed off by the
King at 8am and a luncheon was held later
for a contribution presentation ceremony,
which was attended by UTAR chairman
Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik and newlyelected MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Ka
Ting.
UTAR to enrol 15,000 students in 2005
U
niversiti Tunku Abdul Rahman
(UTAR) is expected to enrol 15, 000
students for its 2005 intake. It expects to
enrol 9,000 students next year, said UTAR
chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik.
At present, he said, some 3,689 students
were studying at the university’s temporary
campus in Petaling Jaya and an extension
building that was being set up, would take
in another 500 students.
Speaking at a dinner to raise funds for a
dialysis centre in Taiping recently, Dr Ling
also announced that the Government had
given the nod for the university’s medical
faculty to be set up at a hospital in Johor
Baru. On the main campus now being built
in Kampar and scheduled to be completed
in September, he said it was a testimony of
a 33-year-old dream. “But this dream
would not have materialised without the
support of the people who helped to raise
about RM190mil for it so far,” he said,
inviting them to visit the campus which he
described as “a beautiful place which
everyone would marvel at.”
10
Wife of minister raises
RM12,000 for UTAR
with song
Maznah (center) with Rais (second from
right), Chong (third from left) and Tham
(right) cutting the anniversary cake
When a popular Indonesian song, Benci
Tapi Rindu, was sung by a distinguished
guest at a fund-raising event for Universiti
Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) recently,
it easily netted RM12,000. The singer was
none other than Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim’s
wife, Datuk Seri Maznah Rais, who went
on stage and rendered the song which was
popular in the 80s. The event was also to
celebrate the Federation of Commercial
Photographic Society Malaysia and
Persatuan Fotografi Selangor and Kuala
Lumpur’s 30th and 53rd anniversaries,
respectively. During the anniversary dinner,
an auction was also held to raise funds for
the federation.
Present were MCA public service and
complaint department Michael Chong, who
is the federation’s adviser, Photography
Singapore president Phua Zhen Foo,and
federation president Tham Kam Peng.
- THE MALAY MAIL -
MCA wishes to extend its
appreciation to everyone who
has contributed towards the
UTAR building fund. Your
contributions would help in
creating better opportunities
for our future generations.
UTAR to set up Sarawak campus
U
niversiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) will set up a Sarawak branch campus. UTAR chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik,
who recently visited Kuching, Sarawak, said he would leave it to the state to decide on the site for the campus. An agreement in
principle was reached after he met Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud. Dr Ling said Taib had assured him that the state
government would look into the alienation of land to build the proposed UTAR Sarawak. Details of the project will be worked out later.
Dr Ling also met key Chinese leaders to discuss the possibility of the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) or other groups playing
a role in running UTAR Sarawak. Among those he met were SUPP president Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam and its secretarygeneral Datuk Sim Kheng Hui.
Sports Toto donates RM1.5 million for UTAR
S
ports Toto is the latest corporate body to donate to Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman
(UTAR) building fund. At a simple ceremony, UTAR Council Chairman Datuk Seri Dr
Ling Liong Sik received a cheque for RM1.5mil from Sports TOTO Executive Director
Datuk Robin Tan. Looking on are UTAR President Tan Sri Datuk Dr Ng Lay Swee and
Human Resources Minister Datuk Dr Fong Chan Onn.
MCA and MBF Cards introduces Affinity Card to raise funds for UTAR
CardMembers, it is projected that RM4
million could be raised for UTAR this year.
“This strategic alliance with MCA is in line
with MBF Cards new marketing strategy
for personalization and customization as
being the way forward in the credit card
business,” said Loy.
Datuk Loy Teik Ngan handling a mock MBF
MCA Affinity Card to Datuk Seri Dr Ling
Liong Sik, witnessed by MCA President
Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting and MBF
Chairman Datuk Kaimullah Masheerul
Hassan
T
he Malaysian Chinese Association
(MCA) together with MBF Cards
(Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd recently launched the
MBF MCA Affinity Card, specially created
for MCA members with the objective of
raising funds for UTAR. This is the first
time that a political party is partnering with
a credit card issuer in initiating a long-term
programme for fund raising. The MBF
MCA Affinity Card provides an excellent
opportunity for MCA members to
continuously contribute towards education.
One of the main attractions of this Card is
the commitment by MBF Cards to
contribute 0.1% of all retail spending
charged by CardMembers to the UTAR
Fund. Apart from this, part of the Card’s
annual fee will also be channelled towards
the fund. At the launching ceremony,
President of MBF Cards Datuk Loy Teik
Ngan said with the targeted 10, 000
The UTAR Council voiced their support
to the fund raising through the use of the
Affinity Card programme, which would
further accelerate the UTAR Fund. It’s
Chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik
said this unique collaboration will
complement fund raising initiatives for
UTAR. “We are very encouraged that
people from all walks of life are contributing
towards the building fund for UTAR,” said
Dr Ling. “With this programme, plans for
UTAR could be met within the time frame
that has been set,” said Ling.
UTAR took in 400 students when it first
opened its doors and the enrolment jumped
to over 3,300 at it’s recent intake this year.
“The university’s temporary campus in
Section 13 in Petaling Jaya would no longer
accommodate more students and UTAR’s
permanent campus in Kampar would
enable the university to take in more
students in future,” added Ling.
In support of this worthy cause, the
programme offers an attractive annual fee
of RM195 for a 3 year membership, after
11
which the fee will be RM125, an attractive
discount of 45% from the normal annual
Gold Card fee of RM225.
Applicants will also receive welcome gifts
of T-shirt and wallet worth over RM100.
Annual fees for Supplementary Cards will
also be waived for the first three years with
only RM50 chargeable from the fourth year
The MBF MCA Affinity
Card, a unique way to
raise funds for UTAR
onwards, constituting a 60 % savings from
the normal Supplementary Card annual fee
of RM125.
The MBF MCA Affinity Card
Programme also offers attractive benefits
to its Card Members such as the
comprehensive bill payment services
through MBF Cards CALL ‘n PAY, CLIK
‘n PAY and GIRO, the Bonus Link
Rewards Programme, Free Personal Travel
Insurance, Free MBF Countdown
International Privilege Card worth RM165
which allows Card Members to enjoy
savings of up to 50 % at over 80, 000 outlets
worldwide and many other benefits.
Good Turnout at Wanita MCA’s Public Forum on Safety
RITA SIM
security guards in every level of underground car parks and
employ enough personnel to take turns to monitor closed-circuit
television (CCTV) screens. Intercom systems are also required
for quiet corners to allow people to seek help or alert the
management during emergencies.
“The ministry will organise spot checks on
implementation of the security measures. We will also identify
exemplary complexes to serve as role models for other
managements. “The security focus is not confined only to car
parks, but includes the entire building and beyond, such as
infrastructure under the care of local authorities,” he said. Ong
said that local authorities were on the look out for risk areas in
public places such as overhead bridges, public parks and
underground pedestrian walking areas.”
Canny Ong’s best friend, who dined with her on the
night she was abducted, told the forum
the difficulties in trying to convince
security guards to quickly respond in
the first hour of the incident. Noreen
Natasha Mohd Noorajala, 31, said she
was with Canny and her family at
Bangsar Shopping Centre and
witnessed the pain and panic of the Ong extending his
family. Noreen narrated the ordeal of condolences to Canny’s
having to convince the security guards husband, Brendon Ong
in the shopping centre to act on their
complaint that something had happened to Canny, before they
finally agreed to check the CCTV recording. “There was a lack
of urgency on their part. Even after confirming that Canny had
gone missing, there was no assistance, instead, we were asked
to go to the Brickfield police station to lodge a report.
City deputy CID chief Asst Comm Wong Wai Loong
asked participants of the forum to take crime prevention
seriously. “How many of you actually take the initiative to put
emergency numbers to call in your handphones,” he asked. He
said the hotline numbers of police stations were readily available
from pamphlets, posters and newspapers every day but not many
people store the numbers in their handphones. ACP Wong,
who was a panel member, said many people also do not make
it a point to really check out exhibitions on safety while they
were shopping at complexes. Other panelists at the forum
included President of the Malaysian Complexes and High Rise
Building Management Association Richard Chan and President
of the Real Estate & Housing Development Association
(REHDA) Datuk Jeffrey Ng.
J
ust as Canny Ong’s family
was attending to her funeral,
more than 200 people
participated in Wanita MCA’s
public forum on “Safety in
Shopping Complexes and
Buildings”. They came in full
Ong, Wanita MCA and
force to voice their concern members from the public saying
no to crime
over the abduction and murder
of Canny and a spate of other crimes in the city. Apart from the
general public, representatives of security firms, building owners
and women’s organisations attended the forum. A minute of
“The public must be more
vigilant, alert and work
closely with the police to
curb crime so that it
would be safer for all of
us,”
Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen
silence was observed in memory of 28-year-old Canny before
the start of the public forum.
“We would not let Canny die in vain,” said Wanita
MCA Chief Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen. “Except for some words
of comfort, it was difficult for us (referring to a delegation from
MCA who paid respects the day before) to say anything to
Canny’s family. Nothing can be done to bring her back to life.
Nevertheless, we can all do something to prevent such incidents
from recurring in future,” said Ng. She urged the public to be
watchdogs for their neighbourhood to reduce the alarming crime
rate. “The public must be more vigilant, alert and work closely
with the police to curb crime so that it would be safer for all of
us,” she appealed.
MCA President Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting who is also
Housing and Local Government Minister launched the forum.
He said the government is looking at requiring all new
commercial building projects to submit detailed structure plans
of the proposed car parks to identify risk areas, such as blind
spots, which security cameras cannot reach. “The amendments
will also cover penalties for failure to implement security
features. Currently, we are using administrative influence
through local authorities to get building managements and car
park operators to follow suggested procedures,” he said.
As the legislative amendments would take time to
materialise, the ministry had issued another circular to local
authorities detailing standard operating procedures for security
enforcement in commercial buildings. Among others, the
circular urged building managements to install time recording
machines in isolated corners of buildings for security guards to
clock-in during patrol rounds to keep track of the frequency of
these spots being monitored. They are also required to deploy
A minute of silence was
observed by all at the
public forum in
memory of Canny Ong
12
“MCA must move as a team and not as individuals.
Under the party peace plan, no one is left out. .”
- Datuk Chan Kong Choy -
Ong and Chan pledged to work together
Datuk Chan Kong
Choy’s rise in politics
MCA president Datuk
Seri Ong Ka Ting and his
deputy Datuk Chan
Kong Choy have pledged
to work together with
honesty and sincerity to
bring the party to
greater heights.
B
oth of them agreed to put party interest
above self-interest and go on a crosscountry trip during the state conventions
from July to mend whatever rifts that may
exist at grassroots level. Both leaders said
this during an interview over TV1’s Isu
Semasa (Current Issues) programme,
which was moderated by The Star’s deputy
managing editor Chua Yew Kay soon after
they were elected as president and deputy
president.
“As soon as Chan and I were
picked to lead the party, A and B teams
ceased to exist,” said Ong, adding that those
who continued to associate them with the
previous teams should stop doing so as the
party did not endorse it. Chan, who
described Ong’s explanation as loud and
clear, said he would work hard to unite
party members along with the president.
“I agree with the president and now that
the MCA crisis has ended, we can start to
unite the grassroots and if there are
problems, we will try and solve them,” he
said. When asked how he regarded MCA
Youth, which had been very vocal, Chan
said that many harsh words had been
uttered during the party leadership crisis
but a new MCA Youth could be developed
as the crisis had ended. To this, Ong said
he would meet Wanita and Youth leaders
to resolve the lingering problems that had
not been resolved.
On the future vision of the party,
Ong said that MCA placed a lot of
importance on education and the economy
and this would continue to be the party’s
main agenda. “Apart from this, we will
ensure the Chinese community is not left
out of the mainstream of development and,
at the same time, work within the Barisan
Nasional framework to promote racial unity,’’
he added. On claims that MCA was not
forceful in championing Chinese rights, Ong
said the community must understand that the
party must strike a balance in solving issues
concerning their mother tongue and other
community matters. “Our actions should not
be misconstrued by UMNO or other
component parties as not working to promote
racial unity and a Malaysian race under the
Barisan Nasional,” he said. Ong said that
MCA would not make false promises which
could not be delivered, but believed in taking
a moderate stand in dealing with issues and
crises affecting the community. He said if
MCA did not fulfil its promises, it would not
be able to stay in power to serve and represent
the community.
On preparations for the coming
general election, Ong said the party needed
dedicated, hardworking and credible people
to serve the people. “We want to go to the
general election as one team,” he said, adding
that MCA would work extremely hard to win
more seats for Barisan Nasional. Chan said
the public would not respect MCA if party
leaders and members did not remain united.
However, he said he had received positive
responses from local and foreign-based
Chinese associations on the resolution of the
crisis. Later, Ong, when asked how he and
Chan would attempt to resolve the party strife
“within a few months when the problem had
festered for about four years,” replied, “I
believe the impact of the former president and
his deputy resigning together, is a first step
towards mending the rift. “What could be
Continued on page 14
13
D
atuk Chan Kong Choy started
his political career as State
Assemblyman for Tanah Rata in
Cameron Highlands, when he won
the seat in the 1986 general
elections. In 1987, Chan became
the National Organising Secretary
for the party. At the same time,
Chan served the Pahang State
Government as its Executive
Councillor and held that post until
1990.
After the 1990 general
elections, Chan was elevated by the
party leadership and made a Deputy
Minister in the Culture, Arts and
Tourism Ministry. In 1990, Chan
became the party’s National Youth
chairman. Chan was re-elected to
a second term as the National Youth
chairman in the 1993 party
elections. Chan was made a vicepresident in 1999 and subsequently
assumed the Deputy Finance
Minister’s post after the general
elections that same year. With his
experience in the party leadership
and Government, Chan faithfully
remained as Deputy Minister and
MCA Vice-president. On May 23,
Chan was elected as deputy
President replacing Datuk Seri Lim
Ah Lek. Chan was appointed
Transport Minister in a minor
Cabinet reshuffle on June 24.
Continued from page 13
more noble than their intention to
withdraw for the sake of the party.” He
added that both he and Chan had met
several times in the past month to discuss
their strategy of overcoming issues that
plagued the party.
Chan said that both he and Ong
had been working together since 1981
and “we have never quarrelled on a
personal level.” “When we had to debate
on issues, we had done so in a rational
manner and professionally,” he added. In
an exclusive interview with the New
Straits Times recently, Chan said that
when the party conducted orientation
courses for new members. Ong and him
were among the most active lecturers for
the programme. He said both their
working relationship were good and they
often shared similar views on government
policies. Chan conceded however that
for the last three years they did not have
many opportunities to work closely.
Nevertheless, despite the problems, both
did not criticise one another on a personal
level. “We debated issues professionally.
The Nanyang issue was a classic example.
We were the last two speakers during the
EGM and we argued our case. There was
never any personal attack. I don’t foresee
any problems working closely with Ka
Ting,” said Chan.
On another question on Chan’s
vision for the party, he said “ Ka Ting
and I have the edge because of our
educational background. In primary
school, I studied in Chinese; in secondary,
in English and in Universiti Malaya, it
was in Bahasa Malaysia. We can speak
Mandarin, can read Chinese and so, we
understand the aspirations of the Chinese
community very well. But we have also
been exposed to other races, and their
cultures and religions since we were
young.” Chan reiterated that although
MCA is a Chinese-based party, the party
do not only serve the Chinese community.
“Take the Langkawi Project as
example. We have helped the Malays and
Indians and other races with their studies.
It is for everybody. There must be this
realisation that we must work together.
Gone are the days when the Chinese think
of competing with the Malays and
Indians.”
EVENTS
State MCA Conventions to focus on unity
arty unity and preparations for the general election are set to be major topics
when MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting and his deputy Datuk Chan
Kong Choy criss-cross the country to open the 13 state MCA conventions, beginning
July 6. Ong said it would be a good opportunity for him to meet grassroots leaders
and members. “Our concern is to find ways to strengthen the party’s organisation,
unity and services for the people,” said Ong. MCA secretary-general Tan Sri Dr
Ting Chew Peh said most of the national party leaders were expected to attend the
opening of the conventions. State conventions have always been a good forum for
the grassroots leaders to provide feedback to the national leaders as well, he added.
He said the national annual general assembly to be held at the party headquarters in
Wisma MCA here on Aug 10 would be opened by Prime Minister and Barisan
Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad. The national annual general
assembly for Youth and Wanita would be held on Aug 9. Deputy president Datuk
Chan Kong Choy and Dr Ting will open the Youth and Wanita AGMs respectively.
P
SCHEDULE OF MCA STATE
CONVENTIONS 2003
DATE
TIME
6 July 03 (Sunday)
11 July 03 (Friday
11 July 03 (Friday)
12 July 03 (Saturday)
13 July 03 (Sunday)
17 Julai 03 (Thursday)
20 Julai 03 (Sunday)
25 July 03 (Friday)
25 July 03 (Friday)
27 July 03 (Sunday)
1 August 03 (Friday)
2 August 03 (Saturday)
3 August 03 (Sunday)
10.00 a.m.
10.00 a.m.
2.00 p.m
2.00 p.m.
2.00 p.m.
7.30 p.m.
9.30 a.m.
3.30 p.m.
7.30 p.m.
2.00 p.m.
7.30 p.m.
2.00 p.m.
2.00 p.m.
STATE
Johor
Kelantan
Terengganu
Melaka
Perak
Wilayah Persekutuan
Sabah
Kedah
Perlis
Pahang
Penang
Selangor
Negeri Sembilan
Tribute for Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik & Farewell Dinner for
MCA leaders
ceremony dedicated to MCA Honorary Life President Datuk Seri Dr Ling
Liong Sik would be held at Dewan San Choon, Wisma MCA on July 26
(Saturday). The event will commence at 2p.m. A farewell dinner for the outgoing
MCA leaders would follow after the ceremony at 7p.m. at the Mines Convention
Hall, Seri Kembangan. All Central Committee members, MCA Youth, Wanita
MCA, MPs, assemblymen, delegates are cordially invited to attend the ceremony
and dinner.
Party secretary-general Tan Sri Dr Ting Chew Peh said the tribute was in
recognition of Dr Ling’s contributions to the party, community and nation during
his 17-year tenure as party president and Transport Minister. He said MCA had
undergone tremendous improvements within the party and also in its relationship
with the community since Dr Ling took over the party reigns on Sept 3, 1986.
A
14
Wanita MCA launches PROJECT
ICEBERG II – A Message of Love and
Hope
Statistics from the Health Ministry showed that from 1986 to 2002,
there were 51,256 reported HIV cases. In 2002 alone the figures
showed 6,978 cases or 528 cases/month or 19 cases/day with no
sign of new infections reaching a plateau.
I
n a move to create awareness on AIDS amongst the Chinese community, Wanita
MCA has launched Project Iceberg II : Message of Love & Hope. The project
is a natural progression to Project Iceberg – HIV/AIDS More Than What You See,
launched by the movement in 2001 to educate and disseminate correct information on
HIV/AIDS to students in national type and independent schools.
To launch Project Iceberg II , a workshop
was held at the MCA
Training Centre on June 15. The project is organised
in collaboration with the
Malaysian AIDS Council, the Kuala Lumpur AIDS
Support Services Society,
Sin Chew Jit Poh, The Star, and One Academy.
“Wanita MCA is very concerned about
the increasing incidence
of AIDS among Malaysians, especially among the
Chinese,’’ Wanita MCA
chief Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen said after opening the
workshop. “There were
19 new AIDS cases per day in Malaysia last year,
25% of which were
Chinese,’’ she said, noting also that the number of Ng addressing participants at the workshop women affected by the
disease had been doubling every five years since
1990.
Over 200 participants attended the workshop and they would be given additional training to form advanced support
groups for the community. “AIDS is pandemic, hence we need support groups in every corner to help spread the message about
it,’’ Dr Ng said. Community leaders would be orientated on HIV/AIDS during the first phase of the project. During the second
phase, community leaders would be trained to be educators and the final stage of the project would see a road show around the
country.
For further information on how you could participate in the programme, kindly contact Wanita MCA at 2161-8044 or visit http:/
/iceberg.asian-family.com/ . LIM ENG LEONG
HIV infection and AIDS cases reported in Malaysia (1986 - June 2002)
Factor
Sex/Gender
Age groups
Classification
Male
Female
TOTAL
< 2 years
2 - 12 years
13 - 19 years
20 - 29 years
30 - 39 years
40 - 49 years
> 50 years
Unknown
TOTAL
HIV
Infection
44, 937
2, 697
47, 634
102
260
780
17, 828
20, 536
6, 362
1, 129
637
47, 634
15
%
94.4
5.6
100
0.2
0.5
1.6
37.4
43.1
13.3
2.3
1.3
100
AIDS
Cases
6, 157
475
6, 632
20
84
185
1, 380
2, 996
1, 485
459
23
6, 632
%
92.8
7.2
100
0.3
1.2
2.8
20.8
45.2
22.4
7
0.3
100
The battle against HIV
begins with education
Wanita MCA members and the public paying
attention to the speakers
Workshop participants taking part
actively in games
Wanita MCA Exco and
representatives from the Project
Iceberg II partners
Participants listening attentively to Kuala Lumpur AIDS Support
Services Society president Dr Tan Lian Huat talk on HIV/AIDS
Classification
Etnic Groups
Malay
Chinese
Indian
Bumiputra Sarawak
Bumiputra Sabah
Others in Peninsular
Foreigner
No Data
Total
HIV & AIDS
Infection
34, 505
7, 275
4, 151
78
83
296
1, 214
32
47, 634
AIDS
Cases
3, 994
1, 874
494
39
16
94
117
4
6, 632
%
72.4
15.3
8.7
0.2
0.2
0.6
2.5
0.1
100
%
60.2
28.3
7.6
0.6
0.2
1.4
1.8
0.1
100
Source: Ministry of Health
Launch of Iceberg II Project “Message of Love & Hope” Roadshow
The Iceberg II Project roadshow would be launched by Datuk Seri Sharizat
Abdul Jalil on 24 July 2003 (Thursday) at 11 am, Concourse Level of Sungai
Wang Plaza, Kuala Lumpur . The Guests of Honour would pen off the first
message of Love & Hope, during the launch. We are aiming to collect 20,000
messages and signatures to be recorded in the Malaysia Book of Records. Health
talks and quizes, an exhibition will also be held during the launch.
16
“My name is Anna. A year ago,
telling people my name would have
been difficult. I was diagnosed HIV
+. I didn’t even know what that
meant! Nobody explained the test
or the diagnosis to me. All I knew is
that it had something to do with
AIDS. When I saw all those horrible
posters around the hospital, I
thought I was going to die in a
week!“
Anna’s case is just an
example how fear and stigma from
society traumatises a patient with
HIV. Despite the wide coverage on
the disease, the public is still
ignorant and in denial. Some have
the perception that it would never
happen to them or their families.
The truth is, AIDS does not
discriminate and the number of new
cases is on the rise. Only through
proper education could the disease
be contained. And this could only
be achieved with a strong
determination
from
the
government, NGOs and society.
The issue of HIV/AIDS
needs to be addressed
pragmatically. In the words of
Malaysian AIDS Council
President, Datin Paduka Marina
Mahathir, there is an urgency to
work at all levels on HIV/AIDS
education, care, treatment,
advocacy and outreach among
Malaysians. Remember that the
battle against HIV/AIDS begins
when you equip yourself with
correct information on the disease
and people suffering from AIDS.
The HIV virus is
contained in the blood, semen and
vaginal fluids of someone who is
HIV+ and is passed on through
unsafe sex, sharing of infected
needles, from an HIV+ mother to
unborn child or through
breastfeeding.
OPENING OF
NGOO YEE JIN
a lot of emphasis on education as it
hen Tunku Abdul Rahman
believes in upward mobility through
College (TARC) first opened
education,” he said.
its branch in Kampar in
1998, it was only located in a temporary
The Kampar Campus now
premise rented on 14 shop lots at Taman
consists of an administration block, a
Bandar Baru, Kampar. But now, the
laboratory and library block, a Student
Perak Branch Campus is operating in
Centre, a canteen, hospitality
its new permanent campus occupying
management block, a tutorial and school
an area of 50 acres, equip with full Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri block, two lecture halls and four mini
Abdullah Ahmad Badawi launching the
facilities.
lecture halls. The laboratory and library
KTAR campus in Kampar
The opening ceremony of the
block has a computer laboratory with
Kampar campus on May 18 was significant for the MCA 292 terminals equipped with the necessary software and
as it marks another accomplishment of the party’s Internet facilities, which enable students to gather
Education agenda, strongly propagated by immediate information easily and quickly. There is also a library
past president Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik. To mark where students could search for information and gather
this important event, KTAR was fortunate to have a very around in discussion room for discussions. The
distinguish guest, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Hospitality Management Block provides facilities such
Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to officially declare the campus as hotel rooms, a baking and pastry kitchen, an eastern
open.
and western kitchen, a restaurant, a front desk office
In his speech, Dr Ling said that the setting up of training counter and a laundry room which are equipped
UTAR and TAR College’s branch campus would make with up-to-date equipment for students. In order for
Kampar the focal point of education excellence in Perak. students to experience hands-on-training in food service
“The two institutions would help to bring about greater management, a restaurant is open to the public whenever
developments in terms of tourism, industrialisation and there is a training session. In addition, the air-conditioned
investments to Kampar and the state as a whole.” He lecture halls with the necessary audio visual facilities
added that education holds the key to improving the lives also provide a comfortable and conducive learning
of individuals and uplifting their socio-economic status environment. The Perak Branch Campus also provides
of their families. This in turn would bring about sports and recreational facilities such as football,
advancement and development to the nation. He also volleyball, basketball, tennis, badminton and sepak
expressed gratitude to the Federal and Perak State
Governments and the people for continuous supporting
KTAR.
During the launch, MCA Caring & Sharing Choir
group led by Datin Seri Ena Ling and Puan Sri Lee San
Choon rendered five numbers - Together Right From
The Very Start, Getaran Jiwa, Moving In The New Era,
Flower Festival Song and Autumn Song to entertain all
present at the event. The Deputy Prime Minister thanked
the choir for dedicating the song Getaran Jiwa to him
The MCA Caring and Sharing Choir group
and said that the song was sung in a bright, cheerful and
happy manner. He remarked that TARC graduates also takraw. Accommodation is available at the housing areas
like to join politics and singled out three of them namely surrounding the campus.
Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting, Datuk Chan Kong Choy and
Work on the second phase, comprising an
also Subang Jaya State Assemblyman Datuk Lee Hwa auditorium, a clubhouse, an Olympic-size swimming
Beng. “They are politicians who make good pool, and a school block, is scheduled to begin in
administrators and hopefully, they will become good October. Around 2000 students are enrolled at the Perak
examples of patriotic leaders who love and protect the Branch Campus at the moment. Upon completion of
country,” he said. He advised TARC student to appreciate the second phase, KTAR campus in Kampar would be
and make full use of the opportunity to further their able to accommodate 3, 000 students.
studies. “Malaysians are lucky as the government gives
W
17
Q U O TA B L E Q U O T E S . . .
“Any infighting in MCA will be an advantage for the opposition parties. We
would have been glad if MCA factions continued their fights until the coming
general elections.”
-- PAS information chief Ustaz Azizan Abdul Razak
1. “We owe him a lot. Dr Ling would be remembered as a selfless, talented, dynamic and a very tolerant
President.”
- Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting paying tribute to Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik2. “I believe that the Malaysian Chinese and majority of the ordinary members of the MCA wish to see a
united and strong MCA, whose leaders work hand in hand in safeguarding the community’s interest.”
– MCA President Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting –
3. “I stress that MCA must move as a team and not as individuals.”
— Datuk Chan Kong Choy, MCA deputy president 4. “There is only one MCA and we must treasure and nurture our party.”
– MCA Secretary-General Tan Sri Dr Ting Chew Peh 5. “Let us now work together for the betterment of the party.”
- MCA Vice-President Datuk Chua Jui Meng 6. “We have gone through a whole process of change and it is only right that all MCA members work with
the newly-elected leaders for the betterment of the party and the Barisan Nasional,.”
- MCA Vice-President Datuk Dr Fong Chan Onn 7. “There is no place for personal feelings. We are all mature
leaders and know what is close to our hearts.”
– MCA Youth Chief Datuk Ong Tee Keat -
WORDS OF WISDOM
“Fame or integrity: which is more
important?
Money or happiness: which is more
valuable?
Success or failure: which is more
destructive?
If you look to others for fulfilment,
You will never be fulfilled.
9. “We are confident of the leadership of Ong and Chan and
If
your
happiness depends on money,
will give them the full support, especially in uniting the party
you will never be happy with yourself.
and in facing the next general election.”
Be content with what you have
- Johor MCA Chief Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek Rejoice in the way things are.
10. “We have to remain united. There cannot be more than
When you realise there is nothing
one side within the party and the Wanita and Youth wings
lacking,
must work together for the benefit of the party.”
the whole world belongs to you.”
8. “Wanita MCA will continue the good work done by Dr
Ling. We call upon all MCA members to bury all their
differences and work towards a single united MCA for the
the party, Barisan Nasional, Chinese community and the
nation,”
–Wanita MCA Chief Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen -
- Penang MCA Chief Wong Kam Hoong -
-- Tao Te Ching -18
U
niversiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) held a ground-breaking ceremony on January 12 for its main
campus, on a piece of land generously donated by the Malaysian government in Kampar, Perak.
But the seeds for the creation of this centre of academic excellence was not planted overnight.
In fact, it took 30 years.
And after all this time, UTAR is ready to take the next big step.
The UTAR International Advisory Council comprises leading academicians from around the world to lead the
way.
It also has one of the most qualified and dedicated teams of lecturers in the country, to guide its students on the
path of excellence.
With the ground-breaking ceremony, the dream of having a place to call our own has finally come true.
But we need to build on this starting point to bring the dream closer to reality.
The seeds that are planted need to be nurtured to their full potential. UTAR needs to have a well-equipped and
advanced campus in the region to create future leaders and citizens who will make a difference to the community.
It is not an easy task. It needs a lot of hard work, support, and most of all, money.
UTAR needs your help. You can help through individual or group donations, or by organising charity sales or
donation drives.
Every effort will make a great difference in creating brighter opportunities for future generations.
Please send your donations via crossed cheques or money orders
payable to “ Huaren Education Foundation (UTAR) “ and
mail it to MCA Headquarters, 9th Floor, Wisma MCA, Jalan
Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur. Please write ‘Attention : Ms.
Ng Bee Bee / Ms. Angie Ng’ on the envelope. For further
enquiries, please call 03-2161 8044 (ext 229 or 218).
19
“There is a deep sense of sadness and heavy heartedness that Datuk Seri
Dr Ling and Datuk Seri Lim have decided firmly to retire at this moment”
- Newly elected MCA President Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting -
Continued from page 1
The Central Committee
proceeded with the meeting chaired by
vice-president Datuk Dr Fong Chan Onn.
After much discussion, they unanimously
voted not to accept the resignations of
both the party elders. Instead, they opted
for a break to allow two delegations to
persuade Dr Ling and Datuk Lim to
buy two bottles of whisky, that’s very nice reconsider their decisions. The first
of him,” said Ling. Everyone broke into delegation consisting of Datuk Fong
laughter, easing the tension in the air. Chan Onn, Tan Sri Datuk William Chek
Mark of a great leader, Dr Ling was still and Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek tried
capable of being hilarious in such persuading Dr Ling while another
moments.
delegation consisting of YB Fu Ah Kiow,
Party supporters from all over Datuk Tang See Hang and Datuk Dr
the country gathering at the headquarters Yeow Chai Thiam persuaded Datuk Lim
had been hoping that he would continue Ah Lek.
to lead the party. Banners were put up
The Central Committee
both in Chinese and
resumed its meeting at
English urging Dr Ling MIC President Datuk Seri S. the party headquarters
to reconsider his Samy Vellu called to confirm if at 8.00 p.m. where the
decision. E-mails were he was resigning. Putting down two
delegations
also sent. One particular the phone, Dr. Ling told informed the Central
supporter rang the everyone that the call was from Committee that both Dr
headquarters a couple of Samy Vellu. “He promised to Ling and Lim had
buy two bottles of whisky, that’s
times insisting that his e- very nice of him,” said Ling. declined to withdraw
mail, urging the Everyone broke into laughter, their resignations. After
President not to resign, easing the tension in the air. much deliberation, the
be handed to him Mark of a great leader, Dr Ling Central Committee
personally. Dr Ling in was still capable of being then elected vicehis usual calm and hilarious in such moments.
presidents Datuk Seri
friendly way read the
Ong Ka Ting and
mail with a smile.
Datuk Chan Kong Choy as President and
Meanwhile an air of excitement Deputy - President respectively. In their
filled the air outside the Council Chamber acceptance speeches Ong and Chan
as the Central Committee convened their expressed their deep sense of sadness and
meeting, while reporters speculated what heavy heartedness that both leaders have
was transpiring. After 37 minutes, Dr decided to retire. They paid tribute to both
Ling came out from the Council leaders for their leadership and sacrifices
Chamber. Since the 9th Floor foyer was and pledged to work together to bring
packed, he took the staircase linking to new heights to the party.
the 8th floor to take the lift down, followed
by aides and supporters. The air was
unusually silent whilst Dr Ling made his
way out. Looking calm, he told reporters
that he has resigned and everything would
be explained at a press conference the
next day. Deputy President Datuk Seri
Lim Ah Lek also left the meeting room.
He held a press conference on the 7th floor
explaining that he had tendered his
Dr Ling bidding goodbye to CC members
resignation.
A NATURAL POLITICIAN,
LEADER AND MENTOR
D
atuk Seri Lim Ah Lek, 61, joined
the MCA in 1968 and was a
popular figure in Pahang in many
ways. His popularity and style had
attracted the attention of top UMNO
leaders including the the Prime
Minister Tun Abdul Razak, who
invited him to join active politics.
Despite having initial
reservation on leaving his family
business for active politics, Lim’s
climb up the political ladder was a
breeze. He first contested and won the
Bandar Kuantan state seat in Pahang
in 1974 and was immediately made a
State Executive Councillor. He
remained a State Executive Councillor
until 1989 when he resigned from his
state seat. However, he then contested
and won the Bentong parliamentary
by-election following the death of
incumbent Tan Sri Chan Siang Sun.
The victory sent Lim off to active
politics on the federal level, where he
was made Labour Minister in July
1989, a post he held until the 1999
general election.
At the federal level, Lim
moved up the political ladder smoothly
and eventually won the deputy
president’s post unopposed when
incumbent Tan Sri Lee Kim Sai did
not seek re-election. He also won the
number two post uncontested for a
second term in 1999. Socially, while
Lim was known to mingle and dine
with royalty, he also had a soft spot for
the less fortunate, and hosted festive
gatherings for them every year.
- Adapted from the STAR -
LIM ENG LEONG
20