PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently extended Ponggal greetings to Malaysian Tamils through his Facebook page, promising to uplift the community from marginalisation.
However, this gesture – though appreciated by some – underscores a deeper disconnect between symbolic acknowledgment and substantive action.
At a glance, Ponggal, a Tamil harvest festival, holds immense cultural significance in Malaysia, transcending religious boundaries and uniting Tamils of diverse faiths.
Unlike Thaipusam, a religious festival granted public holiday status in some states, Ponggal lacks official recognition despite being more culturally resonant for Malaysian Tamils.
While Deepavali, celebrated nationally, receives significant attention, Ponggal is arguably more culturally rooted in the Tamil identity.
Despite its importance, Ponggal remains sidelined, reflecting a broader neglect of Tamil cultural priorities.
This marginalisation parallels the Indian community’s broader struggles in Malaysia – economic deprivation, social challenges and lack of political empowerment.
Symbolism without substance
Anwar’s well-wishes, coupled with his occasional performances of Tamil songs, may create the appearance of respect for Tamil culture.
However, such gestures do little to address the systemic challenges facing Malaysia’s Indian community, the majority of whom are Tamils.
While the government allocates billions to Bumiputera development, the Indian community receives disproportionately low support.
The RM100 mil allocated through the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (MITRA) – along with RM30 mil in loans – is inadequate for addressing decades of socio-economic neglect.
These token amounts pale in comparison to the pressing needs of a marginalised community.
Indian representation in politics has not translated into meaningful change. Often motivated by personal gain, political leaders fail to confront the harsh realities of Indian marginalisation.
Meanwhile, promises of uplifting the community remain unfulfilled. Anwar’s frequent rhetoric about eradicating poverty among Indians lacks tangible results.
Political realities and broken promises
His Facebook greetings and public displays of cultural appreciation appear more performative than genuine, hence reinforcing a pattern of neglect observed under previous administrations.
The Indian community’s growing frustration is evident in recent political trends. By-elections have signalled a shift in voter sentiment, suggesting that continued neglect could cost the government dearly in the next general election.
For a PM who aspires to promote unity and fairness, ignoring the plight of one of the country’s most disadvantaged communities is not only unjust but politically shortsighted.
At the end of the day, while cultural greetings and symbolic gestures have their place, they cannot substitute meaningful action.
If Anwar truly wishes to uplift the Indian community, he must move beyond rhetoric and Facebook posts by committing to policies that address their socio-economic challenges.
Otherwise, the Indian community may soon hold the “Madani” government accountable, ensuring that every leader indeed has their day. – Jan 15, 2025
Former DAP stalwart and Penang chief minister II Prof Ramasamy Palanisamy is chairman of the United Rights of Malaysian Party (Urimai) interim council.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
