A DAP MP has cynically urged MCA president Wee Ka Siong (BN-Ayer Hitam) to join PAS because he was constantly looking at the opposition bloc when debating the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Chong Zhemin (PH-Kampar) made the suggestion after Dewan Rakyat deputy Speaker Alice Lau advised Wee to not just look at the opposition benches while delivering his speech.
Citing the Dewan Rakyat Standing Orders, Lau said MPs were supposed to address the Speaker presiding over the proceedings rather than any bloc in the house.
Chong then quipped: “Since the Ayer Hitam MP is only addressing the opposition, he can join them. He should join PAS … I’m sure PAS welcomes MCA.”
Ronald Kiandee (PN-Beluran) stood up to defend Wee, saying the MCA president was looking towards the opposition bloc as he was “supported” there.
“He cannot look (towards the government bloc) because DAP attacks him,” said the Bersatu vice-president.
Both MCA and MIC are reportedly weighing their future in both the unity government and Barisan Nasional due to their lack of a role in the federal administration.
PAS has expressed willingness to work with both parties under Perikatan Nasional, with its spiritual leader, Hashim Jasin, saying the Islamic party had no issue working with any party except DAP.
During his debate, Wee repeatedly traded barbs with Chong. For instance, when the BN vice-chairman had accused the government of “robbing” the people through the expanded sales and service tax, Chong claimed that Wee had misled the House and urged him to retract his statement.
However, Lau ordered Chong to file a motion to the Speaker if he was truly dissatisfied with Wee’s remarks.
Wee had also called for the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) to be made an independent statutory body that reports to Parliament.
He said this would be a key reform to ensure LHDN was free from political interests or pressure.
