RM3.17 Million Aid Reflects Government's Commitment To Inclusivity

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has approved a special aid of RM3.17 million to support 90 non-Muslim houses of worship

The aid was announced yesterday by Deputy Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan, and distributed to representatives from 89 temples and one church across Malaysia.

Ramanan clarified that the funds are not intended for repairs or maintenance of the worship houses but for community-focused programmes.

“It focuses more on the development of programmes to assist the people in the respective areas, particularly the worshippers,” he explained.

These initiatives include tuition and religious classes, aiming to foster growth and development within the communities.

He further emphasized that this allocation, approved by the Prime Minister under the Finance Ministry, reflects the Prime Minister’s unwavering commitment to the Indian community.

He noted that while the Prime Minister did not personally deliver the assistance, he consistently demonstrates a strong interest in the welfare of the Indian community, often encouraging its leaders to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.

“Work has to be done. The people must benefit… while we may not always see him on stage, all of us, including Indian Members of Parliament and State Legislative Assembly representatives, are carrying out the work and responsibilities entrusted to us by the Prime Minister,” he said.

Ramanan highlighted that over the last two years under Anwar’s administration, close to RM300 million has been allocated to various programs designed to enhance the socioeconomic status of the community.

These efforts encompassed 275 initiatives implemented through the Malaysia Indian Transformation Unit (MITRA).

He further noted that since the formation of the MADANI Government in November 2022, MITRA has fully utilized its allocated funds for 2023 and 98.9% of its allocation for 2024, ensuring these resources were directed towards the welfare and well-being of the Indian community.

Addressing recent criticisms of racial profiling in aid distribution, Ramanan dismissed such allegations, likening the critics to “an accountant who doesn’t know maths.”

He argued that these misconceptions stem from a lack of understanding and emphasized the government’s inclusive approach.

Ramanan highlighted that over RM136 million worth of initiatives have been implemented without discrimination, designed to benefit all communities.

Of this, more than RM5 million has been allocated specifically for Indian community programmes, enabling MPs and assemblymen to address local needs effectively.

Expressing unwavering support for the prime minister’s equitable policies, Ramanan praised Mitra for fully utilizing its funds under Anwar’s leadership.

“This is unlike the years from 2016 to 2022, where each year, a large portion of the allocation was left unspent by the previous governments for the development of the Indian community,” he said

He highlighted that an additional RM136 million has been allocated for the Indian community under the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, further underscoring the government’s dedication to empowering the community.

Ramanan concluded by reaffirming the trust Indian community leaders have in Anwar’s leadership.

“We care deeply about our community,” he stated, underscoring their shared commitment to advancing its welfare and inclusivity.

Source: Bernama, NST