Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s public apology to the Indian community over his past remarks about Hindu temples has been praised by a DAP lawmaker, who described the gesture as sincere and reflective of the prime minister’s commitment to inclusiveness.
During an event in Negeri Sembilan, Anwar apologised for comments he had made in the past concerning Hindu temples, saying the remarks were unintentional and expressing regret if they had offended members of the Indian community.
Jelutong MP R.S.N. Rayer said the apology was a historic moment, noting that no sitting prime minister had publicly apologised to the Indian community in such a manner before.
‘An honest and sincere apology’
Rayer, who is also chairman of the Penang Hindu Endowments Board, said Anwar showed genuine remorse over an inadvertent remark he had made in the past regarding Hindu temples. He described the apology as honest, conscientious and sincere, adding that these are qualities expected of a true statesman.
According to Rayer, Anwar also acknowledged the strong support the Indian community had given the Reformasi movement over the years, which ultimately helped pave the way for him to become prime minister.
He added that Anwar recognised some of his remarks after taking office may have offended members of the Indian community.
Government highlights support for Indian community
Rayer said the Madani government has introduced several initiatives aimed at improving the welfare, education and economic opportunities of the Indian community.
Among them are:
- Increasing the allocation for the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (MITRA) from RM100 million to RM150 million
- Providing RM76 million in financial assistance to AIMST University over the past three years
- Allocating RM20 million to TAFE College
- Setting aside RM200 million for the maintenance of non-Muslim places of worship
He also said more high-performing Indian students in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) have been offered matriculation opportunities at local universities under the current administration.
‘Time to forget and forgive’
Rayer contrasted Anwar’s approach with other political leaders whom he accused of making divisive remarks about the loyalty of Indian and Chinese Malaysians.
He said Anwar had shown humility by apologising and retracting a statement, even though it had been made unintentionally.
“It is time to forget and forgive,” Rayer said, adding that the prime minister had been magnanimous in offering the apology.
He concluded by saying that the Madani government remains “our only hope and way forward.”
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