The MIC today welcomed the announcement by Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak to increase the quota for Indian students to pursue courses at government matriculation colleges.

MIC Youth chief T Mohan said the announcement proved that the Barisan Nasional government was concerned and did not neglect the welfare of the Indian community, who are a minority in the country.

“The Indian community certainly welcomes such announcement as previously, after the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) was announced, parents were worried about their children’s direction in pursuing further studies.

“With the announcement, the problem can be overcome and it is a positive action that provides Indian students a place to further their studies,” he said when contacted by Bernama today.

The prime minister, in his speech at the Ponggal Festival celebration in Kapar, Klang yesterday, said the number of Indian students in matriculation colleges in the country would be increased from 559 currently, to 1,500 in the 2012/2013 session.

When asked to comment on MIC Youth’s preparation for the 13th general election, Mohan said they had already prepared various strategies.

“We use the approach where we meet the community (especially the Indians) on the ground to know as well as to help them overcome their problems.

“There are no talks or specific assemblies because I believe a leader who frequently meets the voters will make them (voters) feel appreciated,” he said.

Mohan said the MIC, among other things, would launch operation rooms in every state in the near future to facilitate the party to communicate with local residents.

- Bernama