He said voting patterns showed that the electorate now tends to gauge the credibility of individuals and the personality of candidates rather than just go by the party factor.

“We want to present better options and focus more on current issues … we want to move beyond identity politics,’’ he told reporters at a media event in Ipoh today, Bernama reported.

“To become an MCA representative, we need to be able to debate and talk about policies more than just political rhetoric because the people are fed up with this political rhetoric,” he was quoted as saying.

However, the strategy of rejuvenating the party did not mean sidelining experienced leaders, but rather positioning them to assist energetic young candidates in facing the current political realities.

“This is our strategy, unity at all age levels, and where all know their role. So, MCA needs to change according to the political trends, and the demands of the current political reality. We need to act according to the situation so that we can remain relevant,” he added.