SHAH ALAM – Malaysian Indian community leaders came together in a powerful display of solidarity, highlighting the crucial role of Indian unity in determining the outcome of many seats in Selangor during the state polls.
The gathering, held yesterday, was attended by about 200 Indian community leaders representing various non-governmental organisations (NGOs), the academic community, business groups, and professionals. The community leaders urged all Indians to unite behind Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership and support Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional (BN) candidates.
Selangor caretaker menteri besar Datuk Seri Amiruddin Shari was also present at the meeting and said the state government has implemented 46 colour-blind welfare schemes that have addressed the needs of Indians, especially those in the B40 income category.
He reassured Indians that the Madani government was committed to meeting the needs of the community and implementing necessary empowerment programmes for all citizens.
He urged Indians to come out in full force and vote for PH-BN candidates to ensure political stability in the country and thwart attempts to create instability.
The government’s funding of hostels for Tamil school students was also recognised as a pioneering step towards providing better educational opportunities for the Indian community in the country.
Former Klang MP Charles Santiago, addressing the gathering, stressed the significance of Indian unity in shaping the outcome of the elections.
He highlighted that Indian support for PH-BN currently stands at 75%, but emphasised the need to aim for 85% support to secure a decisive victory in the state elections.
He called on Indians from various factions of NGOs and political parties to back Anwar’s leadership and cast their votes for PH-BN candidates.
Gunaraj George, an Indian leader within the PH coalition and also a PH candidate for the Sentosa state seat, emphasised that unity among Indian voters will be the determining factor in shaping their future.
He urged the community to actively participate in the electoral process and show that their votes matter.
“As Indians hold the deciding factor in many seats, their collective support holds immense significance in shaping the destiny of Malaysia.
“Don’t be swayed by attempts to discourage voting. Your role now is crucial, and your voice matters for the future,” Gunaraj emphasised.
He highlighted that support for Anwar’s Madani government was strong among the Indian community and that every ballot cast will be instrumental in securing a better future for generations to come.
The gathering, organised by the Selangor Indian Consultative Council, concluded with plans for various vote-garnering programs among the Indian community using social media and personal visits to voters.
The leaders’ call for unity and unwavering support reflects the critical moment for the Indian community, with every vote holding immense significance in shaping the outcome of the state elections.
They said the Malaysian Indian community stood to build a brighter future, transcending barriers and creating opportunities for better education, employment, and representation.
Their unified support for the Madani government will play a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of Malaysia, they added. – The Vibes, August 5, 2023
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