With the conclusion of the highly anticipated and tensed debate between MCA president Chua Soi Lek and DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, the latter is now calling on Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak to emulate their example.

"This debate is a good but small first step, the next big step will come when Najib debates Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim,' Lim said at a press conference after the debate in Kuala Lumpur this evening.

lim guan eng chua soi lek debate press conference Chua who was also present, said it was up to Umno leaders to decide whether they would like to debate.

However the MCA chief said he has agreed to a re-match with Lim, this time in the English or Malay language, expected next month.

"The time and date will be decided but the topic will be different," he said.

The debate today was held at the end of the ‘Malaysian Chinese at Political Crossroads’ conference and was televised live on national television.

Asked about the duo skirting questions from the floor, Chua defended both Lim and himself, stating: "There was only three minutes, how can we answer five questions in such a short time."

'Let people be the judge'

Despite the charged atmosphere during the debate, both agreed that their performance was up to the people to judge.

"It doesn't matter if Chua Soi Lek or Lim Guan Eng wins, the important thing is to allow people to know the difference between DAP and Pakatan Rakyat and MCA and BN," said Chua.

lim guan eng chua soi lek debate crowd Lim later met DAP supporters and thanked them for keeping cool during the debate.

"I am proud of our members who showed discipline and restrain despite provocations."

Lim had related to his supporters how Chua had insisted in escorting him out of the debate hall because of the tense atmosphere.

Meanwhile, DAP Youth chief Anthony Loke who had helped coordinate the debate said he hoped this would become a political culture in the country.

"DAP must be  pro-active in pushing for this culture, Youth chief versus Youth chief, Wanita chief versus Wanita chief, and every state chair should take on this," he said.