I refer to the Malaysiakini report Next Penang CM: Koh mum, Chia glum .

At a time when DAP is fielding large number of Indian candidates, the Gerakan’s inability to identify a single non-Chinese candidate is shocking. More so, when PAS can field a non- Malay/non-Muslim candidate.

Gerakan’s position is similar to that of 2004 general elections when a similar occurrence took place. How can Gerakan call itself a multi-racial party but is unable to attract or identify an Indian? What kind of a multi-racial party is this? How can it not amend itself over the past eight years? It is a shame for such a party to call itself multi-racial.

It is better for Gerakan to declare itself as a Chinese-based party and I would think that its Indian members should leave this party for other BN parties which will and can recognise potential Indians.

Both DAP and PAS must be commended for recognising the plight of the Indian community and providing better representation through the opposition. Having a voice is very critical in a vibrant democracy.

We Indian Malaysians need to be strategic in our approach. We are a small community but are greatly divided. For those within the BN some are in Gerakan and others in PPP. PPP has only one parliament and one state seat. Nothing much can be expected with so small a representation. Furthermore, PPP is a multi-racial party. Gerakan is only providing a token senate seat and therefore will not be in a position to ensure Indian concerns.

This leaves us with the MIC as they have nine parliamentary and nineteen state seats. In terms of government positions, they have seven positions in the cabinet and seven state exco positions. This is the largest representation within government. However, there is a very strong anti-MIC sentiment now over various complaints especially after the Hindraf rally on Nov 25.

If we want to move to other BN-supporting parties, there is the IPF, Kimma and the new party of KS Nallakaruppan, Miup. These, too, have not been able to win any parliamentary or state seats. They, too, will not be able to ensure a place and a voice for the Indian community.

This leaves us with DAP, Keadilan and PSM. In the case of Keadilan, while there a number of very good NGO activists, they, however, have not been able to win any seats in the 1999 or 2004 general elections. PSM has operated as a community development organisation. They are multi- racial they have been very vocal on issues affecting the underclass of Malaysian society. But they are a very small party and what’s more they are not a registered body.

This leaves us with DAP which has had outstanding Indian voices in parliament like that of V David, P Patto in the past and currently Kapal Singh and M Kula Segaran. Many of their Indian candidates are being fielded such as Dr P Ramasamy, Charles Santiago, lawyer Sivanesan and Manogaar. They have been very vocal as civil society activists but whether they are elected is to be seen.

While they might have captured the attention of sections of the Indian community, can they now gain the support of the Chinese community as DAP is seen as a Chinese-dominated party?

What then is the future political role for the Indian Malaysian? Who should we support? Do we go with the opposition and just have a voice? Will this be sufficient to ensure we have a rightful place in Malaysian society?

Should we abandon the MIC as some sections are calling upon Indian voters to do? Are there signs of change within MIC that provides a window of hope? The new candidates list from MIC has many changes. The party is fielding many young professionals. Does this not give you a new sense of hope?

There is a major difference in being outside or inside of government. Back the party that can best ensure Indians not only have a voice but also be a part of government. Both DAP and Keadilan can only be political pressure groups. They cannot form the alternate government. So should we throw our vote for the opposition?.

Can Indian Malaysians play a role in ensuring that MIC candidates play an effective role once elected to office? How best can we ensure this in the post-election period? The decision is in your hands. Vote wisely.