“MALAYS, Chinese, Indians and other races that wish to be loyal, live together, defend the nation and work together, live in harmony, because the situation in this country is different from other countries in the world. Because of this, one race cannot take everything for itself. In order to set up an independent government, we must compromise and make sacrifices.” – Tunku Abdul Rahman, speech at the Sungai Besi Airport after returning from London, June 3, 1957. (Extracted from Bar Malaysia Article July 17, 2007)
One year and five months ago, the nation witnessed Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim taking the oath as the 10th Prime Minister of Malaysia. It was a moment etched in memory with one particular scene standing out – an Indian man, overwhelmed with emotion, stood in the middle of a highway, tears streaming down his face as he witnessed his idol ascend to the highest office in Malaysia.
This wasn't just a political event; it was a symbol of resilience and triumph. Anwar, once hunted and harassed, had returned with greater strength, now poised to lead Malaysia as its prime minister.
As a prominent figure in the opposition, Anwar had captivated the Indian community with his impassioned speeches and promises, reminiscent of the charismatic moves of the legendary Indian superstar, MGR, from the 70s. He spoke of lifting the Indian community from the shadows, addressing their long-standing grievances and advocating for their rights.
However, since assuming office, his actions have fallen short of expectations, particularly concerning the Indian community. There have been instances of insensitivity and disregard, such as when he dismissed concerns about the quota system and matriculation, or when he brushed off pressing issues raised by a minister pertaining to the Indian community.
His recent call for Indians to "stab him" if they felt he wasn't doing enough for them only exacerbated tensions. Such remarks not only lack statesmanship but also fuel resentment within the community.
Most recently, his statement urging the Indian community not to harbour jealousy or resentment towards the bumiputra community has stirred controversy. Contrary to his assertion, the Indian community isn't envious of the progress made by others; rather, they want their fundamental rights to be acknowledged and fulfilled.
Financial loans/grants, such as RM100mil from Mitra (Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit), RM60mil from Tekun (Tabung Ekonomi Kumpulan Usaha Niaga), and RM50mil from AIM (Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia), are not new. They were given by Datuk Seri Najib Razak who also allocated equally enough to the bumiputra, Chinese and Indian communities. The former prime minister gave Malaysians hope of equal opportunity.
By framing the Indian community's legitimate concerns as jealousy, Anwar risks deepening racial divisions and perpetuating misunderstandings. Instead of fostering unity, such rhetoric only serves to widen existing rifts and sow discord.
What the Indian community seeks is not preferential treatment but fairness and inclusion – a sentiment echoed by many across Malaysia.
VIKNESVARAN GOPPAL
Kuala Lumpur
