KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has struck an inclusive tone at a gathering at MIC headquarters here, while continuing to castigate the politicising of race and religion.
He also acknowledged that some MIC members have quit and joined opposition coalition Perikatan Nasional (PN) while harping on sensitive issues.
“This is a dangerous game… it is not about politics or election, but the nation’s survival. Do we want to continue to allow desperate forces to use the race card and play up religious bigotry?
“Do not compromise on the principle that this country belongs to all Malaysians,” he said in his speech.
Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan chairman, said he had conveyed to MIC president Tan Sri S.A Vigneswaran his full commitment to improving the welfare of all races, including impoverished Indians.
“We don’t need a Malay policy or an Indian policy. We need a Malaysian policy that is able to address the needs of all our citizens.
“I have promised (Vigneswaran)… give me a year (as prime minister). I’m not talking about positions (for MIC figures), but I will deliver my promise (to address issues affecting) poor Malays and Indians.”
Anwar added that he recognises the support provided by MIC grassroots during state election campaigns, noting that he will be sure to “reciprocate” in kind in due time.
“You (MIC grassroots) have shown me enough trust and confidence.
“I’m very appreciative of this commitment and as a leader, I need to do what is expected of me (which is to) reciprocate. It’s my responsibility to show respect to ethnic Indians, especially MIC as the oldest Indian party.”
The prime minister also urged party members and leaders to have faith in his leadership, saying: “Trust me as I trust (Vigneswaran).”
Meanwhile, Vigneswaran said he has since explained to the party’s leadership committee that the prime minister had guaranteed that Indian issues will be resolved within this year.
“And I trust you sir because we have nobody else to trust.
“If I might have a problem, the one thing I know is that I can just buy durian and go to his (Anwar’s) house to resolve it.
“As MIC president I give you my word, you will stay as PM for five years,” he said to the applause of party members.
“Our intention is GE16, where MIC will be at a crossroads. We want to ensure that MIC and MCA are given adequate representation.” His speech and comments come following Selangor Perikatan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali’s recent confirmation that numerous MIC members are switching loyalties to support the coalition, amid talk of dissatisfaction in the BN component party. – August 2, 2023