Final touch: A member from the Election Commission making sure everything is in proper order for the early voting process happening today. — Bernama
KLUANG: At least two rural Tamil schools with low enrolment are set to be relocated to more populated city areas, says Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
He said SJKT Ladang Sembrong would be moved to Impian Emas in Kempas, while SJKT Ladang Mados would be relocated to Pulai Utara.
“We are aware of some Tamil schools with low student numbers, which also have active licences. There is a need for more such schools in city areas,” he said during a major gathering with the Indian community in Mahkota late Sunday.
There are over 5,000 Indian voters in the constituency.
“We will also address other issues affecting Tamil schools in Kluang, as we understand the importance of education for the community,” he added.
In his speech, Onn Hafiz announced a RM1mil allocation for Malaysian-Indian non-governmental organisations – RM400,000 specifically for a temple, with the rest designated for community development.
He said the state government has provided the Indian community with RM16.9mil in allocations over the past two and a half years since he assumed the role of Mentri Besar.
“We have allocated millions for temples and also RM2mil to Yayasan Rogayah for the Indian community. Additionally, we gave RM5,000 to each school statewide for their teachers’ rooms,” he said.
He added that the Johor government had also resolved a longstanding issue regarding the construction of a centre in Johor Baru for performing final rites.
“We do not see colour when it comes to providing aid, as all races here are Bangsa Johor,” he said, adding that unity was important to ensure continued progress in the state.
Onn Hafiz also requested the Federal Government allocate RM5mil for two new crematoriums in Johor.
Meanwhile, MIC president Tan Sri SA Vigneswaran, in his speech at the gathering, called for all Indian-based parties to work together to ensure the community turns out in full force to support the Barisan Nasional candidate in the upcoming by-election.
He stressed the importance of unity among the parties for a decisive victory in the polls.
He also urged the community not to listen to or believe rumours spread on social media.
“We need every Malaysian Indian here to encourage their family members to come out in full force on polling day, Sept 28,” he said.
