KUALA LUMPUR – Various leaders representing the Indian community in the country today held a crucial discussion aimed at fostering unity within the community.
The gathering in the nation’s capital included around 50 representatives from political parties, business groups, community leaders, and academia.
Recognising the pivotal role of the Indian community in shaping the nation’s future, the leaders emphasised the need for them to come together and show their support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Madani government.
In a statement issued by the Selangor Indian Consultative Council (SICC), which organised the event, they said the Indian community in Malaysia faced various pressing challenges, including high unemployment rates, limited access to higher education, and inadequate representation in various sectors.
Additionally, they said the plight of Indian youth trapped in the poverty cycle and marginalisation demanded urgent attention.
Calling for unity, the leaders urged all Indian representatives from political parties, NGOs, and associations to set aside their differences and work collectively towards the betterment of the community.
By standing united, they believe Indians can amplify their voices and effectively address the issues affecting them, prioritising the welfare of the community over internal disputes and political differences.
The Pakatan Harapan candidate for the Sentosa state seat in Selangor, Gunaraj George, emphasised that the unity government offered a unique opportunity for change and transformation in Malaysia.
“By actively engaging with the government, the Indian community can shape policies that genuinely benefit them, making it imperative to seize this chance and work collaboratively to ensure our concerns and aspirations are duly addressed.”
Gunaraj, touted as a potential Selangor Indian leader, said it was time for the community to rally around the unity government and make the most of the opportunity being given to the community.
“Together, the Indian community can redefine their future and ensure that every individual’s dreams and aspirations are fulfilled in Malaysia by rallying behind the Madani government.
“The coming state polls will be a critical moment for the community to demonstrate their solidarity and determination to shape their collective destiny. Any misstep could prove disastrous for the community,” he added.
Former Klang MP Charles Santiago, who was also present at the gathering, issued a plea to all Indians, including those in the B40 group and the working class, to vote for Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional.
He stressed that the Indian vote was crucial for securing a decisive victory for Anwar.
The leaders acknowledged Anwar’s commitment to addressing the basic issues faced by the Indian community.
Given that Indians are among the poorest communities, they said Anwar had made a commitment to eradicate hardcore poverty by the end of the year.
They said that while the community had waited for progress for more than six decades, giving him one year to address these concerns was a reasonable request.
The SICC said that a significant milestone awaited the Indian community in Malaysia this Friday as more leaders from various sectors, including NGOs, professionals, academics, and business groups, will converge to demonstrate their unwavering support for the Madani government.
This gathering symbolises a powerful commitment to the betterment of the community and the nation as a whole, they said. – The Vibes, August 1, 2023
