MELAKA: The race for the top post for the Federation of Chinese Associations of Malaysia, known as Huazong—the umbrella body for Chinese associations across the country—has officially begun.

The spotlight was on three presidential candidates and two vying for the deputy presidency, as all five made their rounds greeting guests during the oath-taking ceremony of Malacca Chinese Assembly Hall Thursday night.

While the candidates were not permitted to speak on stage, they were seated at the main table as guests of honor, marking their presence at the event.

Contesting for the Huazong presidency are current deputy president Datuk Lim Kah Chuan, Kedah Chinese Assembly Hall president Datuk Cheng Lai Hock, and Associated Chinese Associations of Pahang president Tan Sri Goh Ming Choon.

Meanwhile, Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall president Ngan Teng Ye, and Kelantan Chinese Assembly Hall president Datuk Oie Poh Choon are running for the post of deputy president.

In his speech, outgoing Huazong president Tan Sri T.C. Goh reminded all candidates and members to unite after the election and continue working together to lead Huazong to greater heights.

The election will take place during Huazong’s annual general assembly on September 28, with 130 delegates from 13 states casting their votes.