PAS‘s non-Muslim supporters wing (DHPP) claims that Kedah MIC‘s motion to work with Perikatan Nasional (PN) in the next general election may stem from a belief that the welfare of the Indian community is better protected under the administration of menteri besar Sanusi Nor.
DHPP chief N Balasubramaniam pointed to the situation in Kedah, where there have been no major issues affecting the Indian community under PN’s leadership, compared to other states, particularly those governed by Pakatan Harapan (PH).
“This shows that under PN’s administration, we look after all races.
“This realisation may be what prompted Kedah MIC to propose cooperation with PN,” he told FMT, commenting on the motion passed by Kedah MIC on Friday.
The matter was first raised by a Kedah MIC delegate during the state chapter’s annual general meeting, which was also attended by party president SA Vigneswaran.
However, Kedah MIC chairman SK Suresh said the resolution will be brought to the central leadership for a final decision.
Sanusi, who is also PAS election director, has been leading Kedah since May 2020.
Welcoming the move, Balasubramaniam said the Kedah MIC’s proposal may also reflect its disappointment with Barisan Nasional (BN), particularly following Umno‘s decision to form a government with PH.
“If MIC wants to work with PN, we welcome it. MIC has a lot of experience and has previously cooperated with PAS after the 2018 general election.
“They understand PAS’s policies, so cooperation will be easy,” he said.
Balasubramaniam also said such collaboration could add value to PN by helping draw more support from non-Muslim voters, especially among the Indian community.
“MIC’s influence has declined not because they’re inactive, but because Umno no longer supports them as it once did.
“Many MIC members are still active at the grassroots level, but they have not received proper recognition from BN,” he said.
