The history carved by MIC since its formation 70 years ago should serve as a lesson and guideline for party members to strengthen the party, its president, Dr S Subramaniam said.

He said it was important for the present generation to understand the struggle and sacrifices by past leaders in setting up the party in 1946.

"The lessons learnt will enhance the party strength and prepare it to face challenges ahead," Subramaniam told reporters after launching MIC's 70th anniversary celebration in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

Also present were his deputy, SK Devamany, and party veteran K Kumaran.

Subramaniam pointed out that the party had gone through several important phases before and after independence, the May 13 incident and the political tsunami in 2008.

"This is what you call the path of history and understanding each painful experience will give us the strength to draw up suitable and effective moves in achieving future success," he said.

Subramaniam said that efforts were being made to document MIC's history into a book, which is expected to be published by the year-end.

MIC will celebrate its 70th anniversary at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park (MAEPS) in Serdang this Saturday.

- Bernama