Palanivel: PM to look into MIC’s requests

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak will study the various requests made by MIC during its just-concluded general assembly.

“We didn't ask for a lot. We made specific financial requests. I raised them in the recent Cabinet meeting and he agreed. The bulk will be included in the 2014 Budget.

“The Government has given a total RM1.8bil to the Indian community since he took over as Prime Minister,” said party president Datuk Seri G. Palanivel.

 Palanivel had in his presidential address asked the Government to set up a 1Malaysia incubator fund for the Indian community in order to attract young minds; RM10mil for Yayasan Strategik Sosial to train young entrepreneurs; RM10mil to expand MIC's pilot after-school remedial programme, as well as a RM30mil grant to MIED and a matching grant to AIMST University, among others.

Palanivel, who is also Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, said “momentum” towards MIC had picked up and Najib's support had boosted members' morale.

On the alleged 300,000 stateless Indians in the country, he said Pakatan Rakyat should back its claim with proof and details.

“We need facts. Show us the proof. Don't pluck numbers from thin air,” said Palanivel, who earlier handed out RM1.14mil in funds to 37 churches and Christian NGOs nationwide.

He said the amount had increased from over RM400,000 given previously to church groups.

“The Government has come forward to support temples, churches, gurdwaras, NGOs and welfare associations to ensure no community is left out,” he added.

(Source: The Star Website - 14 December 2012)