Aliza Shah
KUALA LUMPUR: MCA remains part of the unity government even though it is staying away from the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election, says Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
Saifuddin, who is also Pakatan Harapan secretary-general, said MCA leaders still attended meetings involving parties in the unity government, indicating the party's willingness to cooperate with other parties in government.
"MCA remains as a component in the Unity government, in Barisan Nasional, so there should not be a question about what will happen without MCA?," he told reporters after launching the Crime Prevention Carnival here today.
"A few days ago, I had a meeting with leaders of the unity government, Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong (MCA president) was there, in fact, he was sitting next to me.
"When I chaired a meeting between Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional last week at the Kuala Lumpur World Trade Centre (PWTC), MCA's representative Datuk Lawrence Low (MCA vice-president) attended.
"So I see their attendance as a symbol of their willingness to cooperate. I view this in a positive light," he said.
MCA has decided against helping non-BN candidates in the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election.
Several MCA leaders have reiterated the party's stance to stay out of the campaign for several reasons, including over insulting remarks made by DAP leaders.
Also present at the event was Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, Home Ministry Secretary-General (Security), Datuk Abdul Halim Abdul Rahman and Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.
The carnival, held at the Sri Sabah Flat, aims to raise awareness about crime prevention.
Meanwhile, Saifuddin also provided financial assistance to victims of a recent fire at the Sri Sabah Flat which damaged five homes casualties or injuries were reported.
At the event, Saifuddin also presented food aid or food baskets to those in need.