Too soon to tell, analyst says on MIPP’s prospects in PN

 

Perikatan Nasional accepted the Malaysian Indian People’s Party as a component member on Monday.

PETALING JAYA: An analyst says it is too early to tell how the Malaysian Indian People’s Party (MIPP), led by former Selangor MIC Youth leader P Punithan, will fare in attracting Indian voters ahead of the by-election slated for May 11.

Sivamurugan Pandian of Universiti Sains Malaysia said MIPP, the newest component party of opposition pact Perikatan Nasional (PN), might need help from other leaders in building a strong support base, especially leading up to the Kuala Kubu Baharu polls.

“We need to see the extent to which the agenda brought by MIPP can attract the Indian community,” he said.

“Perhaps some (PN) leaders will also assist Punithan in garnering support. But as for how much he can do, I think it’s still early.

“He hasn’t been tested yet, and perhaps the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election will be his first testing ground,” Sivamurugan told FMT.

MIPP was accepted into the PN fold on Monday, with Punithan appointed as a deputy chairman of the coalition.

He said the party’s inclusion in PN sent a “clear message” that the coalition prioritises the Indian community, which is the third-largest ethnic group in the country.

“MIPP is also committed to bringing about a holistic economic development agenda and narrative for the Indian community,” he said.

Awang Azman Pawi of Universiti Malaya said MIPP’s tie-up with PN might not have a big impact and might only split the Indian vote.

While MIPP would give Indian voters more options in terms of who to support, he said its leaders have less influence and might not affect PN’s chances in Kuala Kubu Baharu.

“He (Punithan) isn’t popular, but at least PN is showing that it has an Indian party,” he said.

“On one hand, it gives Indian voters more choice, but at the same time, it will split the vote.” - FMT