'Stab' me if I neglected you, Anwar tells Indian community

'Stab' me if I neglected you, Anwar tells Indian community

Published: Apr 14, 2024 7:08 PM


Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim refuted claims he has neglected the Indian community since he took office.

Highlighting various programmes designed to assist and support the Indian community, Anwar said it was unjust to criticise that he hasn’t done anything to address the plight of the community.

“The solution to the problems of the Indians is not only through the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (Mitra). We also have Tekun, in which we allocated RM30 million just for Indians (micro-entrepreneurs).

“There is RM50 million just for Indian families under Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia, which covers the repair of essential basic sanitary infrastructure in our Tamil schools.

“If I didn’t do anything for the Indian community, you have the right to ’stab’ me,” he said today.

Anwar was speaking at the launch of the BR Ambedkar International Convention and Ambedkar’s 133rd birth anniversary celebration held at the Ideal Convention Centre in Shah Alam, Selangor.

Citing his priority to eradicate hardcore poverty, the Pakatan Harapan chairperson said the Indian community in Kuala Lumpur and Negeri Sembilan have received the most assistance, from a ratio standpoint.

“I don’t care whether they are Malay, Chinese or Indian towkays or whether they are successful or not. I only care about the majority of those who are underprivileged.

“I don’t look at it from a racial perspective. If they are hardcore poor, they should be helped.”

Anwar further said the Indian community is integral to the society and that as prime minister, he pays special attention to the community.

“Let me illustrate one area where we have listened to your concerns, my Indian brothers and sisters. We have listened, and indeed, we do care immensely.

“If I solve all the problems in Malaysia, I don’t have to be the prime minister anymore. Give me some time.”


A heart for the oppressed

Anwar commended the late Indian statesman BR Ambedkar’s inspiring career and life despite being born into an oppressed community.

Rising to the top levels of Indian society, Ambedkar was India’s first law and justice minister. He headed the committee responsible for drafting the Constitution of India.

“He built a career and a life advocating for political rights and social freedoms for oppressed communities all across India.

“His commitment to women’s rights was a primary concern. He worked tirelessly, seeking greater equality under the law for Indian women of all classes, and on legal reform to grant women the right to initiate divorce while expanding their rights to inherit property,” Anwar added.