Outlaw use of ‘pendatang’ term on Chinese and Indians, MIC president tells BN

© Provided by The Malay Mail Online Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam says since the e-cigarettes and vapes contain nicotine, these should be subjected to the same laws as tobacco products. ― File picSERDANG, Nov 6 — MIC president Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam today urged Barisan Nasional (BN) leaders to stop describing the country’s non-Malay communities as “pendatang” (immigrants), and even suggested that usage of the term be banned entirely.

In his speech at the MIC polls today, Subramaniam, who is also a federal minister, called on the government to take stern action against those who use the term, regardless whether they are politicians or members of the public.

“Sensitive issues such as the common word ‘pendatang’ (used) by people within and outside political system should be viewed very strongly by the BN leadership, and in all ways, the usage of such term should be outlawed,” he said.

“Anyone who tries to disturb the peace by uttering words that could threaten racial harmony must be dealt with stern action.”

Subramaniam also pointed out that the fifth and sixth generations of Chinese and Indians in Malaysia cannot be considered outsiders or immigrants but are rightful citizens of the country.