KUALA LUMPUR: Indians in Malaysia must unite to seize opportunities provided by the government to ensure the community progresses in tandem with the nation’s development, says Datuk Seri R. Ramanan.
The Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister explained that the Madani government, under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, had planned various development programmes for all ethnic groups in line with the Malaysia Madani concept.
"The Indian community must come together under one umbrella to strengthen and empower its political influence, ensuring their aspirations and future, especially in improving socioeconomic status," he said in his Deepavali message on Facebook Tuesday (Oct 29).
Deepavali will be celebrated by Hindus on Thursday (Oct 31).
Ramanan highlighted that for the socioeconomic development of the Indian community, the government, through the Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Ministry, has implemented initiatives such as the SPUMI Goes Big financing scheme through Tekun Nasional and the Bank Rakyat Indian Entrepreneur Financing-i (Brief-i).
He also noted initiatives like Prosperity, Empowerment, and a New Normal (PENN) under Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia and the Business Accelerator Programme for Indian Small Business (I-BAP) through SME Corp, all of which have supported nearly 10,000 Indian entrepreneurs in growing their businesses.
"More plans are underway for the Indian community, and I will have regular discussions with the Prime Minister to ensure these plans are implemented systematically and effectively.
"Thank you also to the Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick, who has always supported me in realising these plans for the Indian community," he added.
Ramanan acknowledged the vital role of the Indian community in the country's development process, including government formation and political stability.
He reiterated his commitment to ensuring the welfare and well-being of the Indian community.
"I will do my best for all of you. I understand, deeply empathise and can feel the sentiments of the Indian community in this country. I will do my utmost," he affirmed.
In conjunction with the Festival of Lights, the Sungai Buloh MP urged everyone to strengthen inter-ethnic relationships, which are the foundation of the nation's strength and resilience.
"I hope this year's celebration will spark and inspire a sense of ‘nambikei’ (hope) for new light in the lives, well-being, prosperity, and future of the Indian community in this country.
"For this Deepavali celebration, let us come together, unite and work hand-in-hand to move forward and ensure a brighter future for us all, like the light that illuminates," he concluded. – Bernama
