Debating the 2024 supply bill in the Dewan Negara on Dec 4, Ti, a former MCA vice-president, urged the unity government to cancel the congress, which is scheduled to meet next month.

He said he was not negating Malay rights, or even the congress, but it had been taken advantage of by “opportunists for (scoring) political brownie points”.

The former deputy youth and sports minister said Malaysia would not progress so long as such congresses focus on Malay elites who abuse their power, influence and status to enrich themselves at the nation’s expense.

Taking to Facebook today, Puad said Ti needed to explain his comments, which Puad said reeked of racial and seditious elements.

He also speculated that Ti was being outspoken because “he is reaching the end of his political career” after losing his vice-president’s position in MCA.

“Would he have made such a daring (statement) if he was still a deputy minister? That was the tone of a disappointed person,” Puad said.

He also questioned whether having three Bumiputera economic congresses in 58 years “was a waste”, adding that the first congress led to the inception of Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) which, in turn, created Institut Teknologi Mara and Universiti Teknologi Mara.

Puad also said these congresses help produce ideas about new Malay institutions that can advance the Malay agenda.

“Ti is being rude for making accusations that the scholarships, GLCs, civil service and contracts have been monopolised by the Malays. He is questioning the special rights of the Malays.

“Where is the logic that a single congress can solve problems forever?

“Why is the thinking of a member of the upper house this shallow?” he said.