MIPP can help shed PN’s ‘racist’ image, says Bersatu associate rep

The Malaysian Indian People’s Party (MIPP) became opposition coalition Perikatan Nasional’s newest component on Monday. (P Punithan pic)

PETALING JAYA: Selangor Bersatu associate wing deputy chairman S Gana Pragasam is confident the admission of the Malaysian Indian People’s Party (MIPP) into Perikatan Nasional will help the coalition lose its “racist” image.

“People used to say PN is a racist coalition and will never do anything for the Indian community, but accepting an Indian party into the coalition will change that perception,” he told FMT.

Gana, who contested as a Bersatu candidate in the state election last year, does not think MIPP’s presence will give rise to any conflict between the new party and associate wing.

“When I contested, people used to question me, asking why I am contesting under a banner which does not represent Indians. 

“But now with an Indian party in the coalition, it helps us automatically. The coalition can speak for Indians through MIPP,” he said.

Asked whether the Bersatu associate wing’s Indian members will join MIPP, Gana said the matter has not been discussed as yet.

“We will gather our members and decide on our next move,” he said, adding that there is a possibility of the associate wing’s Indian and Chinese members eventually joining MIPP and Gerakan, respectively.

“But any decision will only be made after a meeting is held,” said Gana.

On Monday, MIPP was accepted into PN as its newest component.

MIPP president P Punithan was also appointed a deputy chairman of the coalition.

The party received its membership letter from PN chairman Muhyiddin Yassin before the start of the PN Supreme Council meeting yesterday.

PN also comprises Bersatu, PAS, Gerakan and the Sabah Progressive Party. - FMT