PAS Deputy President Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man has publicly invited MIC and MCA to join the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition, amid rising discontent within Barisan Nasional (BN).
Both parties have voiced frustration over their lack of representation in the Unity Government.
BN Chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi swiftly dismissed the overture, describing it as a personal remark rather than an official offer. He warned that PAS was attempting to “lure” BN component parties with vague promises that may not serve their interests.
Despite Zahid’s stance, cracks are emerging. MIC Kedah and Penang have passed resolutions to explore cooperation with PN, even hinting at a possible exit from BN.
Zahid clarified that such moves have not been formally discussed at the BN leadership level, nor has MIC’s top leadership approached him.
This political tug-of-war unfolds as MIC and MCA grow uneasy over UMNO’s warming ties with DAP—a long-time rival—raising questions about BN’s future direction.
Despite Zahid’s insistence that MIC and MCA remain valued members of the coalition, the reality on the ground tells a different story.
Since the formation of the Unity Government, neither MIC nor MCA has been given Cabinet positions, not even deputy ministerial posts or GLC appointments.
This marks a historic low in their representation, especially given their long-standing roles in Malaysian governance.
Zahid has argued that representation can come in other forms, such as appointments to local councils or GLCs.
However, party insiders have dismissed this as “mere window dressing,” pointing out that DAP has effectively taken over as the voice of non-Malay communities in government.
This shift has left MIC and MCA sidelined, with little influence over national policy or decision-making.
Adding to the frustration, Zahid had reportedly promised Cabinet positions to MIC and MCA during the negotiations to form the Unity Government in 2022.
These promises were not fulfilled, leading to deep dissatisfaction among grassroots members.
In this context, Zahid’s suggestion that MIC and MCA are adequately represented feels dismissive of their legitimate grievances. It overlooks the loss of political voice, the broken promises, and the growing disconnect between UMNO and its traditional coalition partners.
The Malaysian Indian Congress has been a steadfast advocate for Tamil education, actively supporting the development and preservation of Tamil schools throughout the country. Through its commitment to academic empowerment, MIC has helped uplift generations within the Indian community.
As a key component of Barisan Nasional, MIC has consistently championed the interests of the Indian community in both Cabinet and Parliament. It has played a vital role in advancing civil service inclusion, safeguarding minority rights, and influencing national policy.
Though its political journey has seen both triumphs and challenges, MIC’s foundational contributions to Malaysia’s nation-building—and its unwavering dedication to the Indian community—remain indisputable. September 4, 2025
M.Vivekananthan is a Scoop reader