(AFP) The head of Malaysia's largest Chinese party today defended its controversial takeover of two independent newspapers after opponents in the party said the deal could cost votes.

The central committee of the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA), the second largest party in the ruling National Front coalition, voted 32-8 late yesterday to go ahead with the purchase despite a storm of protest.

Chinese organisations and opposition parties see the takeover of the Chinese-language Nanyang Siang Pau and China Press as a further blow to press freedom.

The Chinese-language press has traditionally been more independent than its English and Malay counterparts, which are almost totally controlled by interests close to the Barisan Nasional.

The MCA already owns the largest-selling English daily, The Star.

Ling Liong Sik, MCA president and transport minister, reiterated his party would not interfere in editorial matters.

"We will take note of their concern (the demonstrators) and will not interfere with the editorial policy. Only professional managers will be involved in running both the papers," he said.

MCA vice-president and health minister Chua Jui Meng voted against the deal after citing fears of a "growing gap" between the party and the Chinese community on the takeover.

"That is only a general perception but things will change once they get the right information," Bernama news agency quoted Ling as saying.

Power struggle

Party deputy president Lim Ah Lek, who has long waged a power struggle with Ling, also voted against the deal.

"I am concerned about the feelings of the Chinese community because if this turns into votes against the party it will be a challenging task. I don't know what is the direction of the party," Lim said late yesterday.

The Barisan Nasional relied heavily on votes from the Chinese and Indian minorities in the last election as many Malays turned against it.

Chinese leaders representing various organisations have denounced the MCA's deal, due to be finalised late today. The influential Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry is among the objectors.

"If the MCA says that it represents the voice of the Chinese community, then it must listen to us," chambers president Lim Guan Teik was quoted by The Sun as saying.

"The community opposes the takeover as this will mean the end of press freedom that the Chinese press has enjoyed all this while."

Ling has said the acquisition will be funded through bank borrowings.

Huaren Holdings, the MCA investment arm, is to acquire a 72 percent stake in Nanyang Press, which owns the two papers, for RM230.12 million ringgit in cash.