SHAH ALAM - MIC’s political future appears to be at a crossroads after a private meeting with former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, reportedly signaling the party’s intent to bid farewell to Barisan Nasional (BN).
According to a report by online news portal Malaysiakini, the meeting, which lasted about an hour, was attended by MIC president Tan Sri S.A. Vigneswaran, deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan, vice-president Datuk M. Asojan and secretary-general Datuk S.Ananthan.
“The meeting happened in court yesterday. MIC wanted to tell him (Najib) about the party’s direction. Simply put, MIC (leaders) met Najib to say ‘sayonara’ (goodbye) to BN,” the report said, quoting a source familiar with the matter.
The source, however, did not disclose Najib’s response during the discussion.
The meeting comes as MIC became increasingly vocal about its dissatisfaction with BN chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. In recent weeks, four of MIC’s state chapters passed resolutions calling for the party to leave the coalition.
Amid the discontent, Pas deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man invited both MCA and MIC to consider joining Perikatan Nasional (PN).
On Sept 2, it was reported that PN secretary-general Datuk Seri Azmin Ali described the invitation as a “positive development” ahead of the 16th General Election (GE).
“PN welcomes any political party or individual who embraces the coalition’s ideals and struggles to correct the worsening situation in the country,” Azmin was reported as saying.
BN deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, however, rebuked MIC on Sept 6, urging its leaders to raise grievances within coalition meetings. Saravanan later responded by accusing Umno of sidelining its allies.
“Umno often left its allies in the dark on crucial decisions,” Saravanan said, claiming the party made unilateral choices without consultation.
It was reported that a second MIC source said the meeting with Najib was more than just political strategy, it was also about paying respect.
“The fact is, Najib was the best prime minister for Indian Malaysians and MIC still holds him in high regard for his contributions to the Indian community. So, the party felt it was important to let him know about our direction.
“Najib understands the current political dynamics and the need for MIC to make important decisions,” the second source was quoted saying.
As speculation grew, MIC’s next steps, whether to officially exit BN or align with PN, could mark a significant shift in Malaysia’s coalition politics.