New political party formed to address interests of Indian community

KUALA LUMPUR: Minister in the Prime Minister's Department P. Waytha Moorthy (pic) has announced that a new political party has been set up to address the interests of the Indian community.

"The Malaysian Advancement Party (MAP) is officially formed as of today. I am pleased to inform that the MAP has now officially been registered with the Registrar of Societies," said Waytha Moorthy.

He said in a statement on Tuesday (July 16)that the party's objectives are to protect, promote and advance the political, economic, educational, cultural, religious and social interests of the Indian community in Malaysia.

Waytha Moorthy said that as a people’s movement, the party would ensure that it plays a crucial role in the renewed hope and opportunities under the Pakatan Harapan government for the Malaysian Indian community with effective representation.

"Our party’s direction and vision is to adopt a fundamental rights and needs-based approach for socio-economic advancement towards community empowerment and resilience. 

"The values that we will propagate will include inclusiveness, equality, quality, originality, integrity and transparency with an effort to restore the intention of our forefathers in this multicultural nation," he said.

Waytha Moorthy added that the party would work with all the existing Pakatan parties in a positive and constructive manner to enhance the agenda for shared prosperity under the Malaysia Baru government.

He also said in light of heading the new party, he would be effectively resigning from his position as the chairman of Hindraf.

"An Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) will be called soon to elect the new chairman for Hindraf to continue its role as the watchdog for the Indian community," he added.