It's confirmed. MCA vice-president Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun (pix) will be Barisan Nasional's (BN) candidate for the Kajang by-election on March 23.

The announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyddin Yasin during a press conference at Menara Dato Onn, Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) here Friday.

Muhyiddin said that Chew was selected as she was considered the most suitable candidate.

"This candidate is capable, has held various positions in the government, and also a pretty lady..." said Muhyiddin earlier.

Chew, 50, was a two-term MP for Petaling Jaya Utara. She was however defeated by DAP's Tony Pua during the 2008 general election.

She was also a former Senator and Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister.

Meanwhile, Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is Pakatan Rakyat's candidate for this upcoming by-election. Former UMNO and PKR leader, lawyer Datuk Zaid Ibrahim has also announced his intention to run.

The by-election was triggered after the resignation of PKR assemblyman Lee Chin Cheh on January 27.

During the 13th general election Lee garnered 19,571 votes followed by Lee Ban Seng of the BN with 12,747 votes, Mohamad Ismail of Berjasa with 1,014 votes, and three other independent candidates received less than 250 votes.