‘Unfair and a bully’: Anthony Loke defends DAP rep and dares MCA chief to debate him instead

Transport Minister Anthony Loke speaks during the presentation of special financial assistance to taxi, rented car, and school bus drivers at the Seremban City Council Hall in Seremban on October 22, 2026. — Bernama pic

By Malay Mail

First Published: Sunday, 01 Nov 2026 1:05 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 1 — DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke has challenged MCA president Wee Ka Siong to a public debate to compare their respective track records as the head of the Transport Ministry.

Loke, the current minister, simultaneously dismissed Wee's recent call for a debate between DAP’s Bandar Hilir incumbent, Leng Chau Yen, and her MCA challenger, Jasmine Lok.

The DAP leader accused the MCA chief of bullying, claiming Wee was attempting to exploit Leng’s speech impediment, FMT reported.

He stressed that her condition has never hindered her ability to serve the people of Bandar Hilir over the last five years.

“She has proven herself, she has been there for one term. So, why is Wee only singling her out? Why not other constituencies? He is being unfair and was trying to be a bully,” Loke told reporters at a press conference after officiating the Federal Territories DAP convention today.

Loke pivoted the confrontation toward his own performance, offering to face Wee directly.

“If he wishes for a debate, I can debate him anytime on transport issues,” he said.

Earlier, during his convention speech, Loke urged MCA to “take us on everywhere” if the party genuinely wanted to challenge DAP.

“I can also debate with (Wee). What did you do as transport minister compared with what I have done as transport minister? We are not afraid to be challenged,” he said.

Loke first held the transport portfolio from 2018 to 2020 before the Pakatan Harapan-led federal administration collapsed.

Wee took over the role until late 2022, and Loke was reappointed in December of that year following the formation of the unity government.