FORMER premier Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has extended an invitation to meet with National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang following his remarks about Indian Malaysians during an interview with an Indian satellite TV channel.
Using his social media account, Dr Mahathir expressed his willingness to engage in a discussion with Aaron and hoped for a constructive dialogue.
“Those who talk about multiracialism and criticise me about racial issues should ask why there are race-based parties in the country instead of having a ‘Malaysia’ party.
“Some parties claim they are multiracial but former party leaders call it a fake multiracial,” said the former Langkawi MP in response to Aaron’s concerns expressed yesterday (Jan 16).
During an exclusive interview with Thanti TV, the former premier claimed that Indian Malaysians still identify strongly with their countries of origin, insinuating a lack of complete loyalty to Malaysia. He further asserted that Malaysians should identify as Malay to rightfully consider the country their own.
Dr Mahathir’s comments have stirred controversy, triggering protests and the filing of police reports.
Former Penang deputy chief minister II Prof Ramasamy Palanisamy criticised him, arguing that the former premier lacks the credibility to reprimand Indians for disloyalty, given his role in contributing to ethnic, religious and social divisions.
Meanwhile, Gerakan has pledged to exert pressure on the Perikatan Nasional coalition to condemn Dr Mahathir’s statement. The party intends to raise the issue during the coalition’s upcoming meeting.
Earlier on Jan 15, Kuala Selangor PKR chief Thiban Subbramaniam filed a police report against Dr Mahathir in response to the controversial remarks. – Jan 17, 2023
Main photo credit: Reuters
