PRIME Minister Anwar Ibrahim does not support the establishment of any new political party and regrets the actions of those who misuse his name for that purpose, his office said today.

“The Prime Minister’s Office would like to emphasise the prime minister does not support or acknowledge any persons who want to establish a new political party.

“The PMO takes seriously any actions by any quarters who deliberately misuses the name of the prime minister for a specific purpose without permission from this office,” said the office in a statement.

Yesterday, Malaysiakini reported that businessman P. Thiagarajan, who is said to be a close acquaintance of Anwar, intends to establish an Indian political party.

He was quoted as expressing his desire in a ceremony in Klang organised to gather the voices of Indian community leaders on the need for a new party.

“I told Anwar about today’s ceremony. He said ‘go ahead’.

“Whatever the response is today, I will convey it to him in the near future.

“Any final decision will be taken by him. Don’t worry, we hope for the best from our PM,” he said, as quoted by Malaysiakini.

The PMO said the act of associating Anwar’s name with efforts to establish a new political party is “extremely irresponsible”, in addition to affecting his credibility and the administration of his government.

“In that regard, PMO advises the people should not be confused by unofficial statements issued by any party,” the statement added.

The ceremony in Klang on Saturday was also attended by several veteran Indian politicians including former MyPPP president M. Kayveas, former Indian Progressive Front secretary-general K. Panjamoorthy and MIC veteran Dr N Ganabaskaran.

Two other former representatives were also present – former Kapar MP S. Manikavasagam and former Kahang assemblyman Ramis Subramaniam.

Former MIC central working committee member K.P. Samy organised the event, titled “Indian Community towards a Brighter Future”. – October 9, 2023.