PN's Indian wing backs Dr M's 'Malay unity' call for stability

Summary

• MIPP backs Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s Malay secretariat, arguing it addresses political fragmentation and that cohesive Malay leadership would benefit national stability.

• The Indian component party of Perikatan Nasional said a united majority community is essential for multiracial nations, adding that Indians should also unite for a stronger Malaysia.

The Malaysian Indian People’s Party (MIPP) today sought to allay criticisms over ex-prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s announcement of a Malay secretariat to “save the Malays”.

In a statement today, the ethnic Indian party under Perikatan Nasional said Mahathir’s initiative is not a rejection of diversity or democracy.

“Rather, it acknowledges a critical reality: two of Malaysia’s three major racial communities are politically fragmented. Such fragmentation serves neither the nation nor the communities themselves. It breeds instability, unpredictability, and weak representation.

“When a senior statesperson like Mahathir calls for unity within his community, he fulfils a responsibility - not only to the Malays, but to the entire nation,” said MIPP president SP Punithan.

He added that a cohesive Malay voice can foster more stable and focused national leadership.

Mahathir yesterday announced that the new committee would advocate for a return to a Malay-led government, by focusing on Malay issues.

“They (Malays) need fighters to champion their cause. Right now, they don’t have a dedicated fighter. We’re not concerned with other problems, we just want to focus on one struggle - the struggle to save the Malays,” he said during a press conference at the Perdana Leadership Foundation in Putrajaya.

The veteran politician, who turns 100 in a month, claimed that the many problems of the Malays can only be resolved if the community once again leads the government.

While PN is involved in the committee, Mahathir claims it is non-partisan, and that Umno members are free to join.

He added that the committee would serve as a platform to address issues affecting Malays that the government failed to resolve.

“Political stability cannot arise from perpetual horse-trading or shifting alliances driven solely by power struggles. It must emerge from clear mandates, trusted leadership, and the coherent representation of each community within a balanced coalition,” Punithan said.

He insisted that for any multiracial nation to achieve peace and prosperity, unity within its majority community is essential.

“Unity brings strength. Unity builds trust. Unity leads to stability.

“If Malays are striving for unity, and others follow suit, the Indian community cannot afford to remain divided. MIPP’s mission is not about division. It is about forging a stronger Malaysia through a stronger, united Indian voice,” he added.

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