Wakil rakyat India dulu lantang kritik MIC kini ‘bisu’, kata penulis

Janakey Raman Manickam, a former Indian MP, has observed the apparent shift in the stance of Indian community members in Malaysian politics. Once vocal critics of the MIC, these individuals are now seen as more reserved, according to Manickam. The 78-year-old author of Malaysian Indians: Impact and Pain: Narration of an Unending Saga of a Marginalised Community attributes this change to their involvement in the government.

Manickam, who has been following the Dewan Rakyat since 2023, questions why Indian community representatives from DAP and PKR are not more proactive in addressing their concerns, even as they now serve in the government. He argues that instead of seeking solutions, they are acting like opposition leaders. Manickam urges all MPs and MPs, regardless of their background, to identify and support the disadvantaged Indian community in their respective areas and assess the necessary assistance.

He proposes using voter lists to identify former beauticians and their descendants, as well as evaluating the socio-economic conditions and current needs of affected families. Manickam believes that these funds should be channeled through party leaders to the prime minister, while the plight of the community should be raised in Parliament and the DUN.

He also notes that the marginalized Indian community has been underrepresented for decades and that their suffering and issues are a generational legacy that requires national attention. The book was launched on October 11 and is priced at RM49.90. Those interested can contact the author via WhatsApp at 013-392 7727.