KUALA LUMPUR: Analysts have praised MCA's unwavering position in criticising the government, perceiving it as a calculated manoeuvre to maintain its political relevance.
Political analyst Dr Ainul Adzellie Hasnul underscored the significance of this decision, noting the vital role played by the party in providing checks and balances within the government.
"When Wee Ka Siong said that he would remain vocal in criticising the government, he wanted to show that MCA is still a party that is relevant in the political scenario in this country.
"With only two members of parliaments, of course he wanted to portray MCA as a force to be reckoned with. MCA also does not hold any ministerial post, but the party will play a role as a check and balance within the unity government.
"Wee seems to show that MCA is still relevant and the party is championing the Chinese community. Furthermore, he wants people to see MCA as a party that is impartial even though the party is part of the government," he told the New Straits Times when contacted today.
Ainul also added that it was essential for MCA to expand its political engagement beyond mere criticism to stay relevant.
"MCA can remain relevant in the government, but the party has to do more for society. This includes involving more in social activities."
Sunway University's political scientist, Professor Dr Wong Chin Huat, has expressed that Wee's role in providing checks and balances is constructive and does not threaten government stability.
"Wee is a government backbencher. Not being a member of the government frontbench, he does not have to defend the administration due to the doctrine of cabinet collective responsibility.
"Being critical of the government frontbench while supportive of the government is the normal thing to do for government backbenchers in mature parliamentary democracy. They are not meant to be government supporters."
Regarding comparisons between MCA and DAP, Wong stressed the unfairness of judging both parties solely based on their contributions to the Chinese community.
"It is unfair to judge DAP solely on what they do for the Chinese community, rather than what they do for all Malaysians. Similarly, it is inaccurate to classify MCA as a Chinese-issues-only party.
Earlier, Wee remarked that its party pledged to maintain its vocal stance in criticising the unity government if its members failed to fulfil their duties effectively.
He said the party must monitor the government's performance as people had entrusted MCA with being a political party under the system and spirit of parliamentary democracy.
However, he said, if the government demonstrated effective governance, MCA would not only abstain from criticism but also extend its support.