Discussion on Indian economic woes

A Indian business organisations will hold a roundtable discussion on how to improve the economic standing of Malaysian Indians.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Indian Business Association (MIBA) will organise a roundtable discussion with regard to the economic situation of the Indian community.

MIBA president P Sivakumar said despite efforts by the government through Tekun and Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia, there has not been any major efforts taken to address this issue.

According to him, since the last general election, the government has taken several measures in order to placate the Indian community, which turned its back on Barisan Nasional in 2008.

Sivakumar said while some segments are contented with receiving the small hand-outs, the majority however preferred to see a more long-term plan put in place.

“The setting up of various bumiputera agencies to assist the bumiputeras in retail, construction and the service sector has proven to be successful.

“Why cannot similar agencies be set up to initiate and promote Indian businesses in infrastructure projects, vendor business with government linked companies, issue permits for construction, commercial vehicles and others?” he asked.

Sivakumar explained that the half day discussion organised by MIBA aims to:

*Articulate the current status of the economic development of the Malaysian Indian community noting what has been undertaken since 12^thgeneral election

* Identify the root causes, are these attitudinal or structural

* Chart out recommendations and concrete programmes in capacity building

“MIBA’s objective is to give the Indian community a special opportunity to articulate the current situation and seek in a practical way to resolve the concerns. The half day forum will be held in Petaling Jaya on April 1st,” he added.

He also said that the findings of the forum would be submitted to Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak and MIC president G Palanivel.