KKB by-election: Slander will only hurt Indian community, says Ramanan

HULU SELANGOR: Certain leaders in the Indian community have been reminded against resorting to slander and spreading false information to secure votes ahead of the May 11 Kuala Kubu Baharu (KKB) by-election.

Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk R. Ramanan said such actions were counterproductive in the long-term development of the Indian community.

"It's disheartening to witness certain leaders within the Indian community resorting to slander. When they disseminate inaccurate information, it hampers the community's ability to access the assistance provided.

"For instance, when government agencies announce aid initiatives, these leaders often attempt to distort the facts. If what they claim are truths, then it is acceptable, but twisting facts through slander only victimises the Indian community,” he said.

Ramanan said this at an engagement session with the Indian community organised by the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (Mitra) here on Thursday (April 25).

Also present were Sentosa assemblyman Dr Gunaraj George and Mitra Special Committee chairman P. Prabakaran.

Ramanan expressed hope for other Indian leaders to engage with the community and provide clarity on various government initiatives, adding that this will shield them from falling prey to slander propagated by irresponsible parties.

Meanwhile, on the Malaysian Indian People Party (MIPP) officially accepted into Perikatan Nasional (PN), Prabakaran, who is also Federal Territories PKR deputy chairman, dismissed it as a mere gimmick to attract support from the community.

"However, this tactic is outdated and ineffective, especially in KKB where voters are discerning and seek representatives genuinely committed to serving all communities,” he said.

The Kuala Kubu Baharu state seat fell vacant following incumbent Lee Kee Hiong’s passing on March 21 due to cancer.

The Election Commission has set April 27 and May 7 for nominations and early voting, respectively. – Bernama