Bintulu Member of Parliament Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, who made this observation, reminded Chinese leaders that selfish attitude and approaches in leading an organisation would not benefit their community.

“While you are in position and having the capability to bring changes, try to make use of the power entrusted to you for the benefit and well-being of your organisations and community in general,” Tiong said at the 20th Federated Foochow Association sport carnival welcoming dinner at Eastwood Valley Golf & Country Club on Friday night.

Superiority complex and couldn’t-care-less attitude not only could cause the leaders’ downfall but also disunite the Chinese of various clans, he said, adding that they should not point fingers and blame others for their downfall.

“Leaders are judged by the people by their performance and contributions to their organisations and community as a whole,” he said.

Therefore, he said, leaders must be ready to carry their big responsibilities without having any hidden agenda, and focus on pertinent issues and problems faced by the people.

“The biggest challenge would be to change the mindset of the community especially the younger generations who must be groomed to become leaders and human capital for development,” said Tiong.

Leaders, he said, should also be open-minded and able to accept criticisms and suggestions, particularly the constructive ones, for the betterment of the community.

In his speech which was read out by Senator Pau Chiong Ung, Tiong also called on Foochows to co-operate with each other for unity, development and progress.

Among the prominent Foochows at the dinner were Shing Yang Group managing director Datuk Ling Chiong Ho, and prominent businessmen Datuk Jimmy Lau, Hii King Chiong and Lau Kiu Kiong.

More than 2,000 Foochows from throughout the state converged here for the sports carnival hosted by Miri Foochow Association.