BN Component Leaders' Reaction To Dr Mahathir's Announcement - Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, May 19 (Bernama) -- Several Barisan Nasional (BN) component leaders gave different reactions to Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's announcement on Monday that he is quitting Umno.

MCA secretary-general Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan said Dr Mahathir's decision would not help Umno and the BN. He hoped Dr Mahathir would reconsider the decision quit because the BN was facing various challenges, he said.

Ong who is Housing and Local Government Minister said he was sad over Dr Mahathir's surprise move. "We do not want more problems or to cause problems," he said.

"Our country needs stability and not uncertainties. His decision will trigger adverse pressures on the people and foreign investors," he told reporters in Ipoh.

MCA vice president Datuk Ong Tee Keat said he hoped UMNO would able to resolve and handle the current situation following Dr Mahathir announcement.

Gerakan vice-president Datuk Chang Ko Youn said he felt Dr Mahathir's decision to quit Umno was "a bit too hasty".

"In my opinion, it is not good for the BN. Any unhappiness, he should settle it within Umno," he told Bernama.

MIC president Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu, meanwhile, refused to comment on Dr Mahathir's move because, he said, it was Umno's internal problem.

[More at http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v3/news.php?id=334027]