Member of Parliament for Klang, Ganabatirau Veraman says the concerns raised at the recent rally should be addressed and a firm commitment must be made towards structural solutions. The following is his statement published in its entirety.
The recent Turun Anwar rally may not have seen the overwhelming turnout expected by its organisers, but the underlying message is loud and clear that there is growing discontent and frustration among the rakyat. The people are hurting, and the voices of dissatisfaction, although not thunderous in numbers, were strong in spirit.
The Indian community, in particular, was largely absent. This is not due to indifference, but because many Indians today are politically fatigued, worn down by years of promises, marginalisation, and systemic neglect. Their absence from the streets should not be mistaken for satisfaction. It is a quiet protest, one that may become louder at the ballot box if not addressed sincerely and swiftly.
Many Indian Members of Parliament, including myself, have persistently raised issues affecting our community. We have written letters, made public statements, engaged in side meetings and even raised these matters in Parliament and during special sessions. We have tried through all means to bring this dissatisfaction sincerely to your attention, Prime Minister. But due to the lack of favourable response, the perception among the people is that we have not done anything. This is damaging our credibility and reputation on the ground, even though we have done our part with full sincerity.
We must not brush this off or allow ourselves to be lulled by the convenient narrative that all is well with Indians. It is not. And this applies across the board including Malays, Chinese, Indians, Orang Asli, Sabahans, Sarawakians where many feel a deep sense of economic, social and political unease.
The answer is not more ad hoc aid or knee-jerk announcements. What we need is a firm commitment to structural solutions. We need leadership that listens, not just during campaigns or crises, but consistently. I call upon the government, especially our Members of Parliament, to hold a special caucus or discussion to address the people’s rising concerns. Let us stop talking about the people and start talking with them.
Let us not fear the expression of dissatisfaction. It is not a threat to democracy, it is the essence of it. The rakyat have spoken peacefully, and that in itself is a sign of maturity in our democratic journey. I extend my deepest appreciation to the Royal Malaysian Police, other security personnel and members of the media who ensured the gathering remained peaceful and orderly. This is not new to us. We have seen it before, and we have always emerged stronger when we choose to engage, not suppress.
To lead justly is to listen, to act, and to uplift.
As the great Thirukkural says:
“இருட்டறை நீங்கித் தெளிவுடையான் அரசன் பொருட்டறிந்து பீடுஇல் கடை.”
“The king who rules with justice and understanding, free from bias, stands tall and without reproach.”
– Thirukkural, Chapter on Righteous Rule 547
Let us strive to be that kind of leadership focusing on being fair, grounded and responsive. The people are watching, and they deserve nothing less.