BN Component Parties Need Not Merge - Ong - Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 (Bernama) -- Barisan Nasional (BN) component parties representing the non-Malays need not merge to be loudly heard as the individual parties can handle issues and challenges that come their way.

MCA secretary-general Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan said such a merger would be unhealthy as the BN believed in dialogues and an honest relationship.

He was commenting a statement by former MCA deputy president Dr Chua Soi Lek that non-Malay BN parties should merge to become a strong to rival to Umno.

Ong, who is also Perak MCA chief, said the BN was aware of the political reality and was taking steps to improve its image and breathe new life in the coalition.

"We are having very active discussions at committees level to enhance the cooperation between component parties," Ong said after opening the Architect's Centre here Thursday.

He added that the components parties would be meeting more frequently to strengthen ties and to avoid difference of opinion.

[From http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=331711]