LETTER | In August 2024, Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (Mitra) chairperson P Prabakaran requested an increase in the allocation for the Indian community to RM300 million in Budget 2025, up from the current RM100 million.

The Batu MP said the RM100 million allocated annually wasn't enough to effectively fund initiatives aimed at improving the socio-economic status of Malaysian Indians.

He highlighted concerns that the amount would be inadequate to meet the diverse needs of the community and drive meaningful upliftment programs.

Now given that Mitra has endorsed 45 applications totalling RM40 million, which are awaiting processing at the Prime Minister's Office, why is there a delay in their disbursement?

Prabakaran had emphasised that the government needs to boost the budget to adequately support projects that are genuinely transformational for the Indian community.

Why are funding initiatives for the Indian community not given higher importance?

As June approaches, it is concerning that the Indian community remains unaware of the actual disbursement status of the RM100 million allocated to Mitra this year.

It is crucial that these funds are approved and effectively implemented without delay to provide tangible benefits for the Indian community.

Mitra opened applications for the Socioeconomic Development Grant Programme for the Malaysian Indian Community 2025 from Oct 15 to Nov 14, 2024. That was about seven months ago.

Mitra should undergo a full restructuring.

To fulfil her May 23 PKR election’s promise to champion the Indian community, Nurul Izzah Anwar faces the critical task of fast-tracking Mitra's initiatives and programmes.

She must guarantee the swift approval and implementation of the RM40 million allocated for Phase 1 of Budget 2025, as any further delays will hinder tangible progress and risk the return of unutilised funds to the Finance Ministry by the third quarter of 2025.

It's been almost four months since funds amounting to RM40 million for NGOs and training organisations were approved and agreements were signed.

Yet, the money remains undistributed, and there's no clear execution plan in sight. This delay hinders vital community works and training initiatives

The recommendation is for community development professionals and experts to lead the organisation. This change is crucial to ensure both transparency and effective management within Mitra.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.