KUALA LUMPUR — Several Indian community NGOs have questioned the timing of proposals by former minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and former Klang MP Charles Santiago to address issues affecting the Indian community, asking why similar initiatives were not pursued when both held positions of influence.
Selangor Wilayah Indian Business Association president Steven Theventharan said the Indian community welcomed constructive ideas, but those putting forward proposals must also be prepared to answer for their past records.
“Our question is simple: why only now?”
He questioned why long-standing issues faced by the Indian community were not given the same level of attention when Santiago was serving as a lawmaker and later as chairman of the National Water Services Commission (SPAN).
“Charles Santiago was an MP for three terms from 2008 and later served as chairman of the National Water Services Commission (SPAN). The problems facing the Indian community did not begin in 2026.
“If these issues are so urgent today, where was this same urgency over the many years when he held public office and had the platform to advocate these issues?”
Steven said the same scrutiny should be applied to Rafizi, who previously served as Economy Minister, an MP and a member of the federal Cabinet.
“Rafizi was not standing outside the government. He was inside the Cabinet since 2022. We heard plenty about his formulas, economic models and grand ideas. But where were these specific proposals for the Indian community when he had the position and opportunity to push for their implementation? Out of the blue, you are caring for the Indian Community?
“It is easy to have many ideas when you are no longer responsible for executing them.”
The group also highlighted Bersama’s recent performance in the Johor state election, where the party contested 15 seats but failed to secure any victories, resulting in all its candidates losing their deposits.
“That result should have been a reason to listen and understand what voters were saying. Instead, we are now seeing one proposal after another, and we are being told these ideas could eventually form part of another manifesto.
“The Indian community has heard enough manifestos. What the community wants is delivery.”
Questions raised over proposed community funding mechanism
Steven also questioned the proposal for a public-private funding mechanism that would involve raising funds from the Indian community.
“Why should ordinary Indians be asked to put their hands into their own pockets when the government has already allocated specific public funds for the socio-economic development of the community?”
Under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s administration, the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (MITRA) allocation for 2026 has been increased to RM150 million to support the socio-economic development of the Indian community.
Steven said any weaknesses within existing mechanisms should be addressed instead of introducing new funding models that could place additional financial pressure on the community.
“If there are weaknesses, strengthen MITRA. Under the new leadership, MITRA has improved its governance, transparency and delivery. Making sure every ringgit reaches the intended beneficiaries.
“But why create another funding mechanism and ask the Indian community to contribute their own money when government funds have already been specifically allocated for this purpose?
“The priority should be to ensure public funds are effectively delivered to students, entrepreneurs, families and those who genuinely need assistance, not to place another financial burden on the community.”
‘Do not take Indians on another political roller-coaster ride’
Meanwhile, Dewi Sri Maha Mariamman Bandar Springhill Association president Ravi Murugan cautioned politicians against raising expectations among Indian Malaysians whenever political circumstances
change.
“Today there is a new formula, tomorrow a new institution and after that another manifesto.
“Do not take the Indian community on another political roller-coaster ride. And do not treat Indians as a political ping-pong ball to be used whenever it is politically convenient.”
The association stressed that it was not against new ideas or constructive criticism of the government, but said accountability must also apply to those who previously had the opportunity to govern.
“If you were previously in government, tell the community what you delivered when you had that opportunity.
“If these ideas are so important today, explain why they were not pursued when you had the power and position to do so.
“Indian Malaysians do not need more political experiments, formulas or promises. We need execution, accountability and results. If you want to speak for the Indian community today, first show us your record.”
The association added that political promises must be backed by proven action.
“You cannot ask the Indian community to believe in what you promise to do tomorrow when you cannot show what you did when you had the opportunity yesterday.
“The Indian community deserves better than another political experiment.” – August 23, 2026