Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said today he will look into a request for greater MIC representation in the government. 

He said he would also discuss the issue with his deputy Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and other party leaders in the unity government.  

Speaking in front of thousands of MIC members and party president S.A. Vigneswaran at the MIC headquarters, the prime minister said as of now, he didn’t think it was a difficult matter.  

“I must again reiterate that you’re showing enough confidence (towards the unity government) and I’m of course, very appreciative of that. 

“I’ve been going all over the districts (for state elections), particularly in the states on the West Coast, and at every function, I’ve seen MIC leaders attending and giving commitment and respect. I salute them for that,” he said. 

Zahid, who is also Barisan Nasional chairman and Umno president, and MIC deputy president M. Saravanan were also present.

Vigneswaran had earlier raised the issue in his speech, saying that MIC lacked government positions, including in government-linked companies. He also voiced his displeasure over the seat allocations for the coming state polls. 

MIC and MCA had previously announced that they would not be contesting in the elections but would instead focus on preparations for the next general election. 

Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan chairman, asked to be given time to deliver his promises, especially on eradicating poverty among the various races, including Indians. 

“Not many Malays throughout history would dare say publicly in parliament and outside parliament, to say yes, the majority of the poor (are) the Malays, but the poorest is among ethnic Indians, and it is our responsibility to deal with this situation, irrespective of race.” 

Anwar said Malaysia needs poverty-eradication policies that transcend racial barriers.  

He also expressed his appreciation to MIC for their solid support towards the unity government, saying that it was his responsibility to reciprocate by showing respect to the local Indian community. 

“Please be assured, it’s not because I want you to show support in the state elections; I’ve said this long before,” Anwar said. 

He said it was his responsibility to do that for MIC and the Indian community. 

“As much as I trust Vicky (Vigneswaran), you (MIC members) need to trust me,” he said. – Bernama, August 2, 2023.