A CONTROVERSY is brewing after PKR deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar defended her “quiet approach” to addressing longstanding issues faced by the Indian community.
It drew criticism from MIC deputy president M Saravanan, who has demanded proof of her efforts to support the community.
Now, the Member of Parliament for Batu, P Prabakaran has offered to mediate by proposing a roundtable to try to resolve the conflict.
Explaining her point, Nurul Izzah said, “For the longest time, I have chosen to work quietly because I believe in substance before spectacle.”
On Thursday, she insisted that her silence does not equate to inaction. She cited year-long roundtables with economists, civil society groups, and community leaders that developed proposals including technical training hubs, preschool education policies, and entrepreneurship incubators under the upcoming 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).
However, Saravanan has challenged her claims, demanding proof of concrete outcomes.
“So, we ask Nurul Izzah, if you are indeed working for the community, please start by disclosing what has been done or proposed on the matriculation intake issue. Let the Indian community see for themselves whether your silent efforts have translated into real, visible outcomes,” Saravanan said.
He warned against repeating MIC’s past mistake of remaining silent on community demands during BN’s rule.
“MIC has submitted an eight-point agenda for the 13th Malaysia Plan, outlining clear and measurable reforms to address long-standing challenges faced by the Indian community,” Saravanan added.
Amid the clash, P Prabakaran has offered to mediate by proposing a roundtable involving the government, opposition, civil society, and Indian community leaders to “objectively evaluate existing objectives and policies” and form inclusive solutions.
P Prabakaran said finger-pointing was not constructive, and that a more mature approach was required.
“As such, I propose a roundtable be held soon,” he said in a statement yesterday. Prabakaran said, adding that a joint forum could resolve tensions threatening Madani government unity. —July 6, 2025
Main image: Bernama
