Indian voters shifted to PN due to neglect by unity govt, says PN Indian wing
SINAR DAILY REPORTERS24 Aug 2023 10:19pm
Hamzah with Punithan (right)
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Indian wing Deputy Chairman SP Punithan said the government had failed to establish a clear short and long term development plans, similar to the Malaysian Indian Blueprint, has left the Indian community dissatisfied.
"It is seen as a referendum, signaling that Indians want to convey a clear message to the present government that they should not be taken lightly," he told Sinar Daily.
He said Bersatu secretary-general Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin chairs the PN National Committee for Indians, with the Indian wing holding prominent positions.
"This committee serves as an inclusive platform for Indian leaders from PN component parties such as Bersatu, Gerakan, Pas," he said, adding that the focus is in ensuring PN represents all races in the country.
This comes after political analysts say that about 20 per cent of Indian votes went to PN during the state election in six states on Aug 12. The unity government was denied two thirds in Selangor despite ruling the richest state for 15 years.
Punithan said PN has consistently instilled hope and confidence in the community.
For instance, the Selangor PN manifesto promises the formation of a new agency for Indians and RM50 million will be allocated for socio-economic development if PN wins in Selangor.
Additionally, PN Indian wing will address concerns of Malaysian Indian community, focusing on Indian welfare as a priority under Perikatan Nasional, he said.
"Although the Indian votes increase was initially targeted at sub-urban and rural seats but we noticed after the first week of campaigning we had the opportunity to swing Indian votes in urban seats as well, especially Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah and Penang," he said.
He said Indian voters feel that the present unity government has not adequately addressed core issues faced by the community such as social and economic development, promising educational opportunities and long-term plans.
"Rising living costs are also a significant concern. The failure to fulfill promises made by current leaders while in the opposition and during GE14 especially regarding the Indian community, had eroded trust," he added.
Furthermore, the recent conversion of a Hindu youth by the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has garnered significant uneasiness among Indians as race and religion are sensitive topics in a multicultural society, he said.
Additionally, the handling of the matriculation issues recently raised by an Indian girl to Anwar has further strained relations.
"The impact of this two issues will continue and eventually cost trust and votes to PH. PN on the other hand are giving more and more importance to the Indian community," he said.
