THE Ministry of National Unity has welcomed the prime minister’s restructuring and reorganisation of the Malaysian Indian Community Transformation Unit (Mitra) and Penang Hindu Endowment Board, which will now be placed under the ministry. 

Its minister Aaron Ago Dagang said the move was a strategic step to strengthen its role and relevant agencies. 

“The two agencies placed under the ministry will enable it to bring positive long-term impact on development and the progress of the Malaysian Indian community through the implementation of high-impact programs in line with the National Unity Policy. 

“The ministry is committed to improving the socio-economic development of the Indian community through the empowerment of various initiatives and programmes to improve the well-being of Indian society including education, economy, and social.” 

Last month, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said he would continue to monitor the special unit responsible for addressing the socio-economic development issues of the Indian community. 

Anwar added that Mitra’s programmes were now more transparent, and the situation had improved.  

He said the Indian community need not worry about Mitra being placed under a different ministry because all the proper regulations had been established and allocations approved. 

Meanwhile, Aaron stressed that he hoped the restructuring could bring positive impact to continue to deal with development socioeconomic issues of the Indian community in the country. – January 5, 2024.