THE position of the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) and Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) within Barisan Nasional (BN) is no longer dictated purely by principle, but increasingly shaped by strategic political calculations, according to former MCA vice-president Ti Lian Ker.
“I am frequently asked whether MCA will remain in BN and as of now, MCA will remain with BN, and MIC will do so as well,” Ti said, noting that both parties’ future in the coalition is closely linked to anticipated political developments, particularly an upcoming Cabinet reshuffle.
He explained that the decision for either party to stay or exit BN is now driven more by political expediency than ideological considerations.
“Power is the central currency of Malaysian politics, where political positions and alliances can shift rapidly in pursuit of influence,” Ti observed.
Ti cited the Democratic Action Party (DAP) as an example of political pragmatism, pointing to its transition from the previously firm stance of “Asalkan Bukan UMNO” (“Anyone But UMNO”) to its current cooperation within a governing framework that includes UMNO.
“This reflects the unsentimental and opportunistic nature of realpolitik,” he said.
The former MCA leader also noted that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is focused on securing a second term in office, but highlighted Pakatan Harapan’s significant electoral setback in Sabah as a serious challenge to that objective.
“The Sabah result cannot be taken lightly,” Ti said, stressing the need for what he described as “political insurance” ahead of the 16th General Election (GE16).
Speaking further, Ti suggested it would not be surprising if MCA and MIC leaders were appointed as ministers or deputy ministers in an upcoming Cabinet reshuffle, a move that could substantially alter Malaysia’s political landscape.
He also offered insight into recent political manoeuvring by DAP, particularly surrounding the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) debate.
Ti argued that the UEC issue is unlikely to be the central concern, but rather a tool for exerting pressure on the prime minister regarding the potential inclusion of MCA and MIC in the Cabinet.
“This could explain what appears to be a form of political protest by DAP — a signal cautioning against opening Cabinet positions to MCA and MIC and ultimately, power is the real agenda,” he said, highlighting the strategic, rather than ideological, underpinnings of current Malaysian political dynamics. - December 14, 2025
