MIPP bukan ‘pengikut’ PAS, akan tentukan hala tuju sendiri

Malaysia India People’s Party (MIPP) has firmly rejected the notion that it will merely follow the policies of the Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) should the Perikatan Nasional (PN) be dissolved, emphasizing its own ability to shape the future of its political path. Vice President S Subramaniam stated that MIPP holds leadership, organizational structure, competence, principles, and political agendas of its own, including pursuing the interests of the Indian community.

He clarified that MIPP's inclusion in PN is due to political consensus and a commitment to collaborate with other component parties, rather than subservience to any specific party. "MIPP is very clear, we want PN to remain and continue as a strong political coalition," he emphasized in a statement. Subramaniam addressed a report from FMT that cited analyst views suggesting MIPP and Gerakan may follow PAS' path if PN cannot function as a cohesive union.

He cited Sivamurugan Pandian from Universiti Sains Malaysia, who noted that the two parties might continue together with PAS if the latter provides sufficient electoral options and a clear political identity for them. MIPP was accepted as part of PN's constituent parties in April 2024 when former Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin became its chairman.

The Malaysia Registration of Societies Department (JPPM) suspended all PN functioning activities as of September 23 after issuing a notice seeking clarification on allegations of disqualification. Subramaniam noted that if changes occur in the political landscape in the future, MIPP would assess the situation based on the party's interests, commitment, and the community of India.

He stressed that MIPP's collaboration with PAS and other PN members is based on mutual respect, with each party needing its own identity and voice. "Political coalition cannot effectively function if one party believes another does not have its own voice," he said. Subramaniam also rejected the idea that MIPP's stance depends solely on its party symbol or the number of seats it receives from political allies.

According to him, MIPP is strengthening its roots and building its political identity to offer an alternative platform to the Indian community. He emphasized the party's priority is to strengthen its organization and grassroots, and to continue cooperation with its political allies. "MIPP will work with political allies, but we will maintain our identity, principles, and voice," he concluded.