Seat dispute could impede MCA’s revival, says analyst

An analyst has expressed concerns that the ongoing dispute over seat allocations for the upcoming Melaka election within Barisan Nasional (BN) could hinder the revival of the Malayan Chinese Association (MCA). Liew Wui Chern, from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, stated that the disagreement, which led to MCA leaders walking out during the unveiling of BN's candidates, could negatively impact the morale of the party and its efforts in mobilizing resources for the November 14 polls.

MCA's recent electoral success, particularly in Johor and Negeri Sembilan, where it secured a notable number of seats, has increased its standing within the coalition. Should MCA members feel their party has been disrespected, they may be less inclined to support BN campaigns, according to Liew. MCA's president, Wee Ka Siong, along with other leaders, protested the seat distribution during the candidate announcement, insisting on proper consultation before the allocation.

Wee asked MCA not to be treated unfairly and demanded respect. The party had previously held two seats in the Melaka state assembly following the 2021 elections, but no candidates were selected for the remaining five contested seats. Liew suggested MCA should take advantage of the current situation to negotiate better terms, but he cautioned that a compromise may not guarantee the party's participation in all seven seats.

He noted that the coalition's future composition, including a partnership with PAS, would alter seat distribution formulas. Meanwhile, Tawfik Yaakub of Universiti Malaya criticized MCA's walkout as emotional and premature, suggesting alternative solutions such as negotiating for a parliamentary seat or an appointed representative in the assembly.