KUALA TERENGGANU: Raring to go. This best describes newly-named MCA secretary-general Datuk Wong Foon Meng after he was appointed to the post on Tuesday.

He replaces Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan, who lost in his bid for the deputy president's post at the MCA elections.

Wong, who is also the deputy president of the Senate, said he was honoured to have been entrusted with the responsibility.

"My experience as a state party chief and a senator will help me in my new position," said the 54-year-old father of two yesterday.

He said he had expected to be appointed as he was asked to consider the post about two weeks ago.
Approachable and well-liked, Wong became a member of the MCA about 20 years ago. He became a senator on April 13, 2004 and was made deputy president of the Senate two months later.

He was also elected as the state MCA chairman and the state Barisan Nasional deputy chairman last year.

He served in the health, consumer affairs and environment executive council from 1995 to 1999.

He has a degree in mechanical engineering and is an adviser to several associations here, including Terengganu Restaurant, Cafe and Hotel Association, Terengganu Chinese Assmbly Hall and Terengganu Buddhist Association.

Newly-elected state MCA chief Toh Chin Yaw said Wong's appointment was a recognition of a leader from Terengganu.

"He is a capable leader and a seasoned politician. I believe he will carry out his duty very well."