PKR incumbent apologises for racist remark against PSM

An incumbent PKR state assemblyperson in Selangor has apologised after being accused of making a racist remark against Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) and one of its candidates.

The apology came after a screenshot of the remark - apparently made by incumbent Kota Anggerik assemblyperson Mohd Najwan Halimi (above) in a PKR WhatsApp group - was circulated on social media yesterday.

The screenshot showed him remarking “Indian estate party” in response to news of PSM’s announcement that the party is fielding social activist Sivaranjani Manickam in Meru for the election.

At least one person in the group responded to Najwan’s remark with the “crying with laughter” emoji.

PSM secretary-general A Sivarajan took to Twitter to express his disappointment regarding the screenshot.

“If this is your comment, Najwan, this is a racist remark against (a) PSM candidate!

“Another hypocrite in Pakatan Harapan has been exposed! Do we need such elected representatives?” tweeted Sivarajan.

In a statement last night, Najwan admitted his remark was inappropriate and invited misunderstanding, and said he has contacted Sivarajan to apologise to PSM and its members.

He pledged to be more careful with his words in the future and hopes the issue is put to rest.

“I take full responsibility for the writing, which was my ignorant impression towards PSM that I have long known to be in the forefront of championing issues in the Indian community especially those who live and work in the estates.

“I admit this ignorance stems from my weakness in not knowing PSM more closely and deeply,” he said.

‘Not a racist’

Despite this episode, Najwan said he is not a racist and is not prejudiced against any race, including Indians.

“As a leader, I’m always fair, friendly and taking care of the wellbeing of all strata of society regardless of race and religion,” he said.

Sivaranjani was the first candidate unveiled by PSM for the election, which will be held on Aug 12. The nomination day for the election falls on July 29.

According to PSM, the 42-year-old has tackled community problems at the party’s Klang branch for over 15 years.

“Sivaranjani has passionately advocated for the rights of the economically poor, especially the often-unheard voices of blue-collar workers.

“She is able to speak from the experience of having helped hundreds of them obtain justice for everyday violations of their rights or discriminatory acts against them,” it said.

Amanah has announced that it will be contesting the Meru seat but has yet to unveil its candidate.

The two-term incumbent for Meru is PKR’s Mohd Fakhrulrazi Mohd Mokhtar, who is not expected to defend his seat.

He won the seat by 9,608 votes in the last election.

Fakhrulrazi first contested the seat under Amanah but exited the party to join PKR in 2020.