In a statement, Petaling Jaya MCA Youth chief Teoh Tuck Wah said contesting the polls will help MCA to reclaim its position as a “champion of the Chinese community” that emphasises moderation, inclusivity and effective governance.

Teoh also accused the government of failing to implement meaningful political reforms and stimulate economic growth, which he claimed has left many Malaysians disillusioned.

“MCA can offer a credible alternative to both the conservative Perikatan Nasional (PN) and the DAP/Pakatan Harapan coalition, focusing on pragmatic solutions and responsible governance,” he said.

Teoh added that contesting in the by-election would allow MCA to reestablish its commitment in serving the area’s residents. MCA first won the seat in the 1974 election and held it for eight terms.

Kuala Kubu Baharu, a Selangor state assembly seat, fell vacant with the death of DAP’s three-term assemblyman Lee Kee Hiong on March 21. No date has been fixed for the by-election.

The constituency has a mixed electorate comprising 50% Malay voters, over 30% Chinese voters and 18% Indian voters.