Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has sought to assuage MIC’s unease over its lack of government positions, urging the Barisan Nasional component to “trust” him.
He asked MIC leaders to give him one year to tackle issues surrounding poor Malaysians, including those among the Indian community, saying he is passionate about championing their cause.
Anwar said he will discuss MIC’s representation in the government with other party leaders and BN chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, adding that he does not see this as being difficult.
“I must reiterate at this point that you have shown me enough confidence and respect, and I am very appreciative of that,” he told MIC leaders and members at their meeting this afternoon.
“It is fully my responsibility to reciprocate and respect the ethnic Indians, including MIC, who represents them.
“As much as I trust (MIC president SA) Vigneswaran, you need to trust me.”
Anwar, who is also the Pakatan Harapan chairman and PKR president, urged MIC members to continue supporting Vigneswaran as the party’s president, describing him as a politician who has mastered “the art of persuasion and diplomacy”.
He reiterated that he will look after all races, not just the Malay or Indian community, as he serves the country as prime minister.
He said Malays make up the majority of the poor, but the “poorest among the poor” are among the Indian community.
However, he said, Malaysia does not need a poverty eradication policy targeted at the Malays or Indians, but a “Malaysian policy”.
“My dear friends and MIC leaders, please accept this new discourse. My policy is a Malaysian policy,” he said.
Anwar also said it is essential that all parties in the government work together to champion the people’s cause, adding that Malaysia has a bright future ahead.
“I am glad that MIC has become a great friend of mine. Let us work together. Give me the time and space (to lead the government),” he said.
Earlier, Vigneswaran said MIC’s allegiance is with Anwar and vowed to help ensure BN and PH win in the coming Aug 12 state elections.
He claimed that MIC has received “good offers”, without elaborating on what kind of offers, but said “we cannot take the offers”.
He expressed hope that Anwar will ensure MIC and MCA will be given the respect due to them after the state elections are concluded.
“I’m not asking you to solve our problems in BN. I’m asking to give my division leaders the confidence that MIC will not be sidelined,” he said.
