KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) has indicated its readiness to work closely with the Tamil Nadu government under newly appointed Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, saying there are “no barriers” to engaging with a new political leadership in the southern Indian state.
MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan said the party is open to strengthening ties and exploring new avenues of cooperation with the Tamil Nadu leadership, particularly on matters involving trade, culture, religious ties, and the Indian diaspora community in Malaysia.
Speaking to Scoop, Saravanan said MIC’s longstanding relationships with previous administrations in Tamil Nadu, including the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), would not hinder future engagement with the current government.
“It is a well-known fact that we have had close working relations with past governments in Tamil Nadu. However, that does not mean we cannot work with a new leadership,” he said when met.
Saravanan added that it is still early days for the new administration led by Vijay, but there is already a positive willingness on both sides to engage constructively.
“At this stage, it is too early to draw firm conclusions, but there is definitely an openness to work together. We will explore ways to build a constructive relationship with the current government,” he said.
He noted that key issues such as religious and temple visits, trade relations, business opportunities involving the Indian community, and broader cultural exchanges would continue to require close cooperation between both sides.
“There are many matters involving Tamil Nadu and Malaysia that need continuous engagement, including religious tourism, business ties, and the welfare of the Indian community who travel or operate between both regions,” he said.
Saravanan also revealed that he had recently returned from Tamil Nadu and had hoped to meet Vijay, but did not proceed due to the latter’s busy schedule following the formation of the new government.
“I had just returned from Tamil Nadu yesterday. I had hoped to meet the Chief Minister, but he was understandably occupied with government formation matters, so I did not want to disturb him at that time,” he said.
He added that he intends to meet Vijay in the near future to discuss potential areas of cooperation between Tamil Nadu and Malaysia.
Saravanan also extended his congratulations to Vijay on forming the new state government, describing it as a significant responsibility and a new chapter in Tamil Nadu politics.
“Congratulations to him on forming the government. It is a major responsibility and an important moment in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape,” he said.
“We hope he will be able to lead effectively and continue strengthening ties with Malaysia, particularly in areas of mutual interest such as trade, culture, and the welfare of the Indian community on both sides.” – May 15, 2026