KUALA LUMPUR: MCA Youth has proposed that the party consider withdrawing from the unity government if key concerns over education, extremism and equal treatment for all communities remain unresolved.
Its national chief Ling Tian Soon said the wing is particularly concerned about funding for Chinese primary schools, the treatment of top STPM scorers in public university admissions, and what it perceives as a growing trend of extremism.
"If this government still cannot ensure that Chinese primary schools receive their rightful annual allocations, if it continues to treat high-achieving STPM students unfairly, if it allows extremism to grow unchecked, and if it cannot safeguard fair and equal treatment for all races under the Federal Constitution, then MCA Youth proposes that the party withdraw from the unity government," Ling said during his speech at MCA Youth's third general assembly of the 26th Central Delegates yesterday.
At a press conference later, Ling clarified that this was MCA Youth's conditional proposal to the party leadership, arising from discussions at the wing's central committee meeting on Friday.
He acknowledged that the unity government was formed in accordance with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's decree after the last general election and stressed that MCA respects that decision.
"However, as events have unfolded and policies have been implemented, there are areas that remain unsatisfactory.
"If this government cannot resolve these issues and ensure that all communities are treated fairly under the Federal Constitution, then we will put forward this suggestion to the party," he said.
Earlier in his speech, Ling said MCA Youth has set a two-year time frame for a perception makeover - from being seen as a traditional "runner-style service team" to a dynamic youth movement that keeps up with the times.
He said the wing must overhaul both its operations and its public image to win back young Malaysians and help MCA regain political relevance.
"People don't reject MCA as a whole. What they want is a more professional, firmer and battle-ready MCA," he said.
Ling added that MCA Youth would professionalise its team, providing structured training for young political leaders and placing stronger emphasis on communications and data capabilities, including statement drafting, video production and analytics, so that the wing could function as a disciplined and data-driven front line.
He also noted that young voters are increasingly focused on parties and leaders who can genuinely improve their lives, rather than slogans or emotional appeals.
"Their concerns now centre on employment, the economy, housing, education, technology and integrity. MCA Youth will continue to raise these issues and press the government to address long-standing grievances," said Ling.