Ti reminded Zahid that both MCA and MIC remained loyal to BN even after the coalition’s crushing defeat in the 2018 general election which ended its 61-year rule.

He added that neither party abandoned BN when its reputation took a further hit following a slew of corruption charges against Umno leaders – including Zahid himself – and his conditional discharge.

“We endured public attacks for our association with Umno. This came at great cost to our reputation, yet we remained steadfast during BN’s darkest periods.

“To now ridicule MCA and MIC despite our loyalty reeks of arrogance and ingratitude,” Ti told FMT.

Zahid claimed yesterday that several MCA and MIC leaders were pushing for their parties to quit BN as they were unhappy about not receiving “toys”.

MCA president Wee Ka Siong however denied that the party had demanded “toys”, saying it sought only respect and fair treatment.

Ti said Zahid’s remarks were an affront to the foundation of BN, a coalition based on mutual respect, equality, and shared responsibility among its component parties.

“When its chairman mocks legitimate concerns raised by partners and dismisses them as ‘wanting toys’, it speaks volumes about his leadership – especially considering his cosy ties with DAP,” Ti said.

He added that under Zahid’s leadership, BN had been reduced to “a vehicle of self-preservation, not nation-building”.

“BN deserves a leadership that unites, not humiliates – that restores dignity, not trades it for personal salvation,” he said.