Anwar says aid for Indian community goes beyond Mitra, more initiatives in pipeline

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 4 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revealed that government aid for the Indian community in Malaysia extends beyond the Malaysian Indian Community Transformation Unit (Mitra). He mentioned additional programs in welfare, entrepreneurship, education, and social development. These initiatives are supported by various government agencies and include the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) cash aid scheme, Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA), Tekun Nasional and Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia for entrepreneurship financing, and funds for Tamil schools and places of worship.

Anwar acknowledged that this may not be sufficient, but the government is working on introducing new initiatives. During a visit to the Brickfields Deepavali Mega Bazaar 2026, he highlighted that Mitra's annual allocation has been increased from RM100 million to RM150 million, representing a 50% rise. The government aims to prioritize skills training in areas like industrial automation, technology, and aircraft maintenance for young Indian community members.

Furthermore, additional RM150 million will be provided through Tekun Nasional and Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia to assist the community's entrepreneurs.

In the education sector, the allocation for Tamil National-Type Schools (SJKT) repair and maintenance has been increased to RM50 million, with priority given to schools in urgent need of repairs or reconstruction. The government plans to fully rebuild SJKT Ladang Pamol in Kluang, Johor, and establish six new SJKTs, including locations in Sungai Bakap, Penang, and Klebang, Perak.

Additionally, the allocation for the maintenance and development of registered places of worship will be increased to RM80 million next year, compared to RM50 million annually since 2021.