th

10 Malaysia Plan
Policies, Programs and Budget Request

Let’s Move Friendly & Forward

Economic Task Force

For

By
Arun Dorasamy, MHS Youth Leader
&
Team of Experts
Content

Introduction: View of the Chair 3

Summary of the Classification Format 5

Economy
• I Amanah 10
• Amanah Saham Loan 10
• EPU – Indian Unit 10
• Statistic Commission Malaysia 11
• Smart Agro Land Scheme 11

Socio-Economy
Micro Business
• Micro Loan Delivery System 12
• Government Guaranteed Scheme 12
• Loan Criteria 12
• Permanent Loan Scheme 13
• Loan Convert to Grant Upon Taxation Payment 13
• Micro Business Government Training 13
• Low Interest Loan 4% 13
• Credit Base Re-Loan System 13
• Micro Loan for Home Base Business 14
• Micro Business Information Dissemination Centre 14

Small Business
• Franchise Business Boost 14
• Boosting Franchising 14
• Vendor Development Program 15
• Business Opportunities GLC 15
• Local Workers Training Scheme 15
• Wage Subsidy 5 Years 15
• Technology Incentive 15
• Malaysian Indian Women Participating in Business 15
• Graduate Business Community 16
• Home Base Business Boost 16
• Traditional, Cultural & Indian Art Business 16
• Young Indian Participating in Stock Market/Equity Market 17
Development of Malaysian Indian in Lacking Sectors 17
• Scheme Partnership/JV 17
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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
 • Permanent Business Loan 18
• Invite Reputable Business Association to Assist 18
• Levy for Locals Working Abroad 19
• Uninterrupted Labour Supplies 19

Education
• Higher Education & Matriculation System 10% 21
• Scrap “ Peralihan “ Level for UPSR Under Achievers 21
• New Tamil with 1 : 200 Families 21
• New Tamil Private School Permission 21
• Tamil School Land Acquisition 22
• “Sekolah Cantuman” and Grade “C” 22
• 75% of KPM Tamil School before 2016 22
• Disparity Among Male & Female Teacher 22
• 10% PTD Intakes 22
• Indian Counselor in School 22
• POC ( People Own Culture ) in Secondary School 23
• DBP Tamil Translation 23
• Gov Study Loan for Abroad 23

Social
• Alcohol Laws and Programs in Malaysia 23
• Youth Gangsterism 23
• National Service Additional Allocation 24
• Skill & Mindset Training 24
• Youth Organization : Permanent Annual Allocation 24
• Sports NGO & Sport Program Funding 24
• Wedding Courses & Counseling 24
• Domestic Abuse 25
• Single Mother 25
• Adult Community Night Classes 25
• “Stateless” Malaysian Indians 25
• Social Obligation of Entertainment, Media & Press 26

Government Policies
• Policy in west Malaysia 27
• One Malaysia Language 28
• Language Unity 29
• Malaysian Indian Term & Racial Terms 29
• Dasar Pandang Kehadapan 29
Private Sector & NGOs 30
Conclusion: The End 31
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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
Salam 1Malaysia and Salam Bahagia!

First of all, I would like to extend my gratitude and respect to our Prime Minister and
Economic Planning Unit (EPU) for seeking inputs from all parties before drafting a
substantial 5 year plan in line with our Prime Minister’s Vision of high income
society. In the past, the underrepresentation of minority interests in economic
planning and the poor consultative process has left the minorities’ concerns
unattended. The current government’s effort in reaching out the minority Malaysian
Indians through various channels and avenues is, indeed, a positive and healthy
attempt to overcome the socio-economic imbalance experienced by Malaysian
Indians. In this regard, EPU’s effort in providing Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS) the
platform and opportunity to compile recommendations and suggestions for the
forthcoming Malaysia plan is gratefully acknowledged. It is imperative that the
formulation of 5 year Malaysia Plan represent the interests of all sections of the
Malaysian society in line with the 1Malaysia concept. We understand that the 10th
Malaysia Plan focuses on 6 core strategies, of which the fifth strategy is on
“Bridging the Development Gap”. The forthcoming 10th Malaysia Plan is iconic for
the Malaysian Indians and we at MHS are expecting the government to recognize the
grievances and address the continuous marginalization in an effort to achieve
balanced development and political stability through the following initiatives:

• New or Improved Government Policies,

• More Direct and Innovative Programs and Incentives specifically tailored for
Malaysian Indians’ development,
• Better Distribution and Prioritization of Budget Allocations,
• Simpler and Faster Delivery, and Feedback System
• Effective Information Dissemination Channels, Transparent Process and
Planned measures to Prevent Power and Self-Interest abuses.
• Enrolling and utilizing the resources and expertise of the Malaysian Indian
NGOs in nation building especially in assisting the government in bridging the
development gap among Malaysia Indians.
• Creating more opportunities in the education sector, economic activities,
poverty eradication, political representation and socio-economic balance
through less racial identification as a whole.

We understand the government is sincerely looking forward to working with all

quarters by recognizing areas of concerns and finding common grounds in resolving
it. We also recognize the job is not small one but we believe the task will be less
burdensome as articulated by the Malay proverb “ ringan sama dijinjing and berat
sama dipikul”. We are always ready to be the “arms and minds” of government in
serving people in line with 1Malaysia slogan “Rakyat Didahulukan”. Knowing that
consultation and negotiations can provide better insights, MHS has engaged various
experts namely academics, NGOs, students, youths, housewives, single mothers,
micro businesspersons , civil servants, politicians and even few school dropouts in
formulating this recommendations. We recognize that the contributions of NGOs, civil
citizens, private sector are required to create a holistic solution for Malaysia Indians.
The success of this effort depends on the adaptation and incorporation of the
recommendations directly or indirectly by EPU in the 10th Malaysia Plan. We believe
that we have played a positive role in assisting EPU to be more effective in planning;
now we will leave it in able hands of EPU to do the necessary.

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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth extends its heartiest gratitude and appreciation for all
those made contribution directly and indirectly interms of selfless man-hours,
brilliant research inputs, participated in discussion, endless meetings, compelling
presentations, recommendations, innovative ideas, proven concepts, proposal edits,
test, comments, statistics backups and etc to prepare a well thought through form of
proposal. Without those divine souls of experts, statesman, stateswomen, boys and
girls this effort wouldn’t have been possible at all. The entire Indian community
salutes your giving in assisting the government in formulating even better
Rancangan Malaysia ke-10.

Arun Dorasamy
Malaysia Hindu Sangam
National Youth Leader
Sincerely “Terima Kasih” to the following distinguished selfless individuals and
esteemed establishments.

• Economic Planning Unit – Mr. Kamarul & Team

• Malaysian Hindu Sangam Youth Team: Dr VGR Chandran Govindaraju, Ananthan Sanggar,
Rathaiyogi, Premalatha, Varatharajoo, Sinnathamby & Volunteers.
• Malaysian Hindu Sangam Central Council Members, Mr. Mohan Shan, Dr Balatharmalingam, Mr.
Baskaran, : Staff : Madam Kanmani
• Malaysian Indian Youth Council, Mr. Sivakumar Ramachandran
• Malaysian Indian Restaurant Owners Association Mr. Muthusamy
• Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association, Mr. Nurul Hassan, Mr. Ali
• Malaysian Indian Metal Traders – MIMTA Ms Rajes, Dato Arumugam, Mr. Ravi
• Malaysian Association of Hair Stylist – Mr. Mathirajan
• E Sun Hospitality Consultancy Malaysia, Ms Kogilaranee Packrisamy
• Malaysia Satya Sai Baba Association
• Multimedia University Malaysia, Assc Prof Dr Murali
• University Technology Mara, Prof Dr.Hazman Shah Vijayan Abdullah
• University Technology Mara, Dr. Maniam Kaliannan
• University Technology Mara, Dr VGR Chandran Govindaraju
• University Malaya, Dr Ramesh
• Single Mothers & innovation Ladies Assoc. Ms TamilSelve & Team
• Fitness Network/Yoga Federation of Malaysia International, Dr Lingam
• Artha Dharma, Mr Arvin & Mr Sivajani
• University Tunku Abdul Rahman, Dr Sathiran
• Maritime Institute of Malaysia, Mr.Suresh Manickam
• Malaysian Indian Congress Youth , Entrepreneurship Council Mr. Siva
• Poobalan.Com Mr. Poobalan
• Gujerati Association Malaysia, Dato Bhupat Rai
• Yayasan Social Strategic (YSS), Data Radhir Singh, Mr Ganapathy & Madam Jasmine Adaikalm
• Sekolah Rendah Jenis Kebangsaan Tamil Simpang Rengam, Johor, Mr. Vasu Dorasamy
• United Indian Cluc ( UMiC ), Mr. Gopal, UMiC
• Internet Contributors : Mr.Kunasegaran, Mr.Anand Karupiah, Mr.Ganasan Muthe, Mr.Mahalinggam Maniam,
Mr.Bala Subramaniam, Mr.Poobinathan, Mr.Ravindran M Duraisamy, Mr.Yogeswaran Suppiah,
Mr.Balasubramian, Mr Prem Anand
• Realwell Power Resource, Mr Ragunathan
• English Language Learning Centre, Mr. Ramesh Rao
• Students: Mr Gunaseelan, Mr Murugan, Mr. Vetha Kumar, Mr. Harriswaran, Mr. Lawrence
• Single Mother: Mr. Mala, Mother Kanthayee Annamalai, Mother Thavam
• Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth Johor, Mr. Ravi Dorasamy & Team
• Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth Selangor, Mr. Rathakrishnan & Team
• Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth, Melaka, Mr. Vijay Kumar & Team
• Malaysian Indian Business Association (MIBA) National, Dr Siva Moorthy., MIBA-S’gor Mr. Gopi

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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
Summary of Classification Format

We have identified critical aspects of Malaysian Indians’ needs in this country

especially from the socio-economic perspective with specific recommendations in
areas like business, education, social and government policies. Firstly, the problems
were identified (problem statements) and classified (e.g. economic, social) while in
the summary recommendations, it is re-organized into 3 main categories according
to their priorities as follows:

1. Immediate Term: High priority projects to show quick result within 18

months for people to trust the government’s seriousness in addressing the
needs of the Malaysian Indians. These recommendations are important for
government to get recognition and support, just in time, for the coming
election.
2. Medium Term: Mid Term projects that are catalyst for continuous and
sustainable socio-economic development.
3. Long Term: Projects and policies that places the development of Malaysian
Indians over the long term in line with the national interest.

Immediate Medium Long Remarks

Term Term Term
Classification (0-18) (0 – 36) (0 – 60)
Months Months Months
Economy
• I Amanah X X

• Amanah Saham Loan X X X

• EPU – Malaysian Indian X

Unit

• Statistic Commission X
Malaysia

• Smart Agro Land X X

Scheme

Socio-Economy
Micro Business
• Micro Loan Delivery X
System

• Government Loan X
Guaranteed Scheme

• Loan Criteria X X

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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
• Permanent Loan Scheme X X

• Invite Reputable X X X
Business Association To
Assist

• Loan Convert to Grant X X X

Upon Taxation Payment

• Micro Business X
Government Training

• Low Interest Loan 4% X

• Credit Base Re-Loan X

System

• Micro Loan for Home

Base Business

• Micro Business X X
Counseling Centre Small
Business
• Franchise Business X X X
Boost

• Boosting Franchising X X X

• Vendor Development X X
Program

• Business Opportunities X X X
GLC

• Local Workers Training X

Scheme

• Wage Subsidy 5 Years X X

• Technology Incentive X X X

• Women Participation in X X X
Business

• Gradeuate Business X X X

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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
 Community

• Traditional, Cultural & X X X

Malaysian Indian Art
Business
• Young Malaysian Indian X X
in Stock Market/ Equity
• Development of X X
Malaysian Indian in
Lacking Sectors X
• Scheme Partnership/JV X X

• Permanent Business X X
Loan
• Uninterrupted Supply of X X
Labour

Education
• Higher Education &
Matriculation System X X X
10%
• Scrap “ Peralihan “ X X

• New Tamil with 1 : 200 X X

Families

• New Tamil Private X X

School Permission

• Tamil School Land X X

Acquisition
• “Sekolah Cantuman”

• New System Gred C ( X X

SKM)

• 75% of KPM Tamil X

School before 2016

• Disparity Among Male & X

Female Teacher Ratio

• 10% PTD Intakes X X X

• Malaysian Indian X X
Counselor in School

• POC ( People Own X X

Culture ) in Secondary

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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
 School
• DBP Tamil Translation X X

• Gov Study Loan for X X X

Abroad
Social
• Alcohol Laws and
Programs in Malaysia
o 21 to Drink – Change X
the current age limit
of 18
o Criminalize Public
Drinking Displays and X
Intoxicated Person
Setting up : Malaysia
o
X X
Alcohol Research and
Rehab Centre
o Criminalize & X
Arrestable Offence for
Minor To Consume
Alcohol
o All Alcohol Retailing X
should be confined to
Liquor Shops with
controlled business
hours
o All eateries that
dispense alcohol of X
any type must acquire
liquor license. It is for
all types of alcohol
drinks inclusive of
cocktail and beer. X
o Alcohol
advertisements in all
mainstream Media -
Electronic, Alternative
and Printing Media
should be banned X
completely.
o Mandatory jail terms
for Alcohol
Smuggling, illegal X
trade and Law
Breakers
o Banning the
manufacturing,
trading and retailing X
of Local illegal Brands
such as Samsus &
Todi
o Taxation System base
on Alcohol content .: X
will increase
government income
another RM200Mil
o Anti Alcohol Slogan on
all labels including X X X
reminders from major
religions
X

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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
 • Youth Gangsterism
• National Service X X X
X X X
• Skill & Mindset Training
X X

• Youth Organization :
Permanent Annual X
Allocation X

• Sports NGO & Sport

Program Funding X

• Wedding Courses & X

Counseling

• Domestic Abuse X

• Single Mother X X

• Adult Community Night X

Classes

• ”Stateless” Malaysian X X
Indian
• Social Obligation of X X
Entertainment, Media &
Press

Government Policies
• Policy in west Malaysia X X X
• One Malaysia Language X X X
• Language Unity X X X
• Malaysian Indian & X X X
Racial Terms
• Dasar Pandang X X X
Kehadapan

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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
ECONOMY

Problem Statement: Malaysian Indians are still trailing behind other races in terms
of economic success. To reduce the development gap between races in Malaysia,
which is the most important element of racial unity, the government has to be
proactive. Perhaps, the May 13th and Nov 25th were two big signs and reminder for
the government on the seriousness of economic imbalance. Consequently, just as
May 13th created NEP and Nov 25th and the “Tsunami” 8 inspired the 1Malaysia
concept. To achieve the 1Malaysia dream, the following recommendations are made
to reduce the economic imbalance among the Malaysian Indians.

• I-Amanah. : Government to start an I-Amanah scheme to be parked under

PNB or Khazanah National for Indians to catch up with equity ownership in
Malaysia. Government still able to reach 3% equity share for Malaysian
Indians by 2020 as previously planned. The idea of Indian Amanah (i-
Amanah) been mooted by various quarters in the past and the idea was
whether shelved or scraped due to various reasons. It is perhaps the right
time for the government to seriously address the equity imbalance through
creation of I-Amanah.

• AMANAH Loan: Government has offered various shares under the 1Malaysia
and other similar share schemes. However, owing to lack of financial
capability especially among the poor Indians, they are usually left out in the
process of exploiting these opportunities and benefiting from the investment.
Hence, it is important, for the Government to provide low interest (2%) or
interest free loans to the truly poor Malaysian Indians to invest in shares. For
the Poverty Prone Malaysian Indians, allowing the withdrawal of KWSP to
invest in I-Amanah will be also a great starting point. This is the exact
formula used by ASN when the scheme was introduced in early 1980s to
Bumiputras and Malays. Indeed, this allows for the “real” creation of equity
for those who can’t afford it otherwise. A target of RM250 million under RM10
would be a great achievement.

• EPU –Expert Group on Indian related issues: Government to setup an expert

group within EPU (Malaysian Indian Socio-Economic Planning Unit) to
understand and champion the Malaysian Indian issues and needs. This unit
should be responsible for drawing up action plans and policies to eradicate
poverty and create opportunities for marginalized Malaysian Indian society.
Currently, EPU does not have the capacity to deeply understand issues related
to Malaysian Indians and more importantly over on the strategies and
methods of tackling these issues. Despite recommendations of programs and
policies in the past, it is rarely made public of how much and in which areas
or ways the plan contributes to the needs of minorities. It is time that a
special group of economists and policymakers are placed in EPU particularly
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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
 deal with the social economic imbalance of the minorities. Although, in the
past, the political parties/organizations purportedly representing to the
minorities were consulted, it rarely turns out to benefit the minorities in
question. Firstly, due to lack of expertise, the parties/agencies themselves
(without the help of expertise from EPU) are not in position to exclusively
formulate action plans. Secondly, despite recommendations by the respective
parties to include certain programs or policies, it is always ill treated in the
plans. As well said by our Prime Minister, “Masyarakat Didahulukan,
Pencapaian Diutamakan” and if unity were to be achieved, the Malaysia Plan
should reflect appropriately the needs of all races. Socio-economic imbalance
is experienced by all races and it is important to correct the imbalance
regardless of race. Without these changes, the trust of the society in the
1Malaysia concept and the government’s motives will still be questioned and
will not significantly engender national unity.

• Statistics Commission of Malaysia Currently, the reliability of the

statistical data with regards to Malaysian Indian’s participation rate in various
economic activities is questionable and this is a source of disbelieve,
complaints and dissatisfaction. For the general public, some of the published
data are not the true reflection of what is experienced on the ground. As
such, a Statistics Commission should be formed and it should be more
transparent and independent. However the fundamental principle of this
commission is to practice transparency. The data collection methodology
should be placed for public scrutiny to ensure societal trust in the data.
Currently, there are some serious doubts placed on the Malaysian Indian
population data, economic activities data, poverty data, education data,
equity of Bumi ownership data, crime data, demographic data and indeed
many more areas of concern. Once again, Malaysia in its recent past had its
good share of scandals that erupted due to the lack of public trust on the
Bumi ownership data’s. Government can’t afford to take this light as this is
the primary indicator for policy makers and public to entrust the government
with their future and development.

• Smart Agro Land Scheme: Massive migration of Malaysian Indians from

estates to urban areas due to rapid industrialization and in search of better
opportunities without any urban skills has catalyst the urban poverty
phenomenon in the past decade. Perhaps, now it is the right time for
government to drive these groups into technological base farming sectors in
the urban skirts through land incentive initiatives. Agricultural activities like
cattle fatting, hydroponic farming, flower, white water fish and many more
lucrative areas could be one of the answers to address the Malaysian Indian
urban poverty phenomenon. The scheme will work almost like FELDA but it is
drafted more carefully to attract Malaysian Indians through 1 acre land for
smart agro activities complete with capital and technological assistance.
RM10 could mark the beginning of this scheme by giving out 500 acres from
2011 – 2016.

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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
SOCIO-ECONOMY
Micro Business

Problem Statement: Although the micro Malaysian Indian businesses contribute to

the economy at large, these businesses still face significant challenges. These
challenges are faced at every stage of business processes ranging from getting the
premises, application for licenses and permits, start up capital, loan for operation
and knowledge of know-how.

Past Solution: TEKUN (Tabung Keusahawanan National)

1. Access to friendly information regarding application process is highly

inadequate. It is coordinated through Yayasan Social Strategic which ill
equipped to reach Malaysian Indian micro businesses. This hierarchical
procedures and processes significantly delay the application process and
increases the waiting time which these businesses can ill-afford
2. Requirements for the loans are too high especially for any micro businesses.
Indeed, the high interest charges imposed for the loans as well as the delays
deter businesses from getting their loans on time. There is serious mismatch
between the micro-business credit time of less than 30 days and the
processing time for loans which exceeds 6 months. The loans application cycle
is synchronized with the business cycles for it’s to be useful.
3. The funds get exhausted really fast and it does not serve the purpose of
nurturing the real needs of micro businesses over a longer term. The funds
must be designed, funded and operated as a sustainable and long term
project and not as a ad hoc initiative.
4. In certain cases, the owners have excellent business ideas but yet lack skills
and training. In this aspect, training of prospective businessmen with regards
to businesses is important. MARA has been quite successful in training
owners. The same can be extended to Malaysian Indians as well.

Proposal

1. Micro Loan Delivery System: Micro loans to be disbursed through BSN,

License Money Lenders, Tekun and selected NGOs for a faster delivery
services. Currently accessibility and processing time is the problem.

2. Government Loan Guarantees Scheme: Currently, CGC is only applicable

to small and medium businesses. Government should extend the guarantee
scheme to facilitate the micro business to obtain loans from the banks. This
will also prevent these businessmen from falling pray to loan sharks.

3. Loan Criteria: The requirement for the loan to be relaxed and introduction of
more innovative payback schemes is necessary. For instance, emulating the
proposed micro schemes of Nobel laureate, Dr. Mohd Yunus of Bangladesh is
important. More importantly, priority in given loans to business women must
also be set. Likewise, despite ALONG’s negative image, ALONG is more
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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
 successful in attracting micro business for loans due to their fast delivery
system. As such, the current systems need to be revised especially in terms
of information, processing time, and methods of application.

4. Permanent Micro Loan Scheme: Micro-Loan should not be limited for an

allocated amount. Like PTPTN, micro loans should be made available for those
who want to start a business. It should be continuously given to ensure the
success of the businesses and it should be a pay back scheme. Micro business
companies are 87% of the entire count of companies incorporated in Malaysia
in 2008.

5. Loan Convert Grant upon Taxation: Micro Business needs to be given

incentives for showing good performance. The reward awarding scheme will
ensure and cultivate more organized businesses and responsible business
owners. For instance, for loan applications, tax exemptions should be
considered so as to reduce the burden of the businesses.

6. Malaysian Indian Micro Business Government Training: An allocation of

RM5mil per year on training the owners of micro business is important.
Training plus loans should come hand in hand, so that relevant and potential
micro business can be selected. Upon successful completion of the training,
the owners could be assessed for loans. This will ensure business
sustainability as well as better loan recovery. The training should include
issues on business law and legislation, company setup processes, banking
requirements, labor law, taxation, management, marketing, purchasing,
customer relation, customer service and others that is relevant for the
operations of micro businesses. This training had to be continuous and can be
conducted on part-time basis, as night classes or weekend classes and.

7. Low Interest Loan 4%: The current interest rate for micro loans should be
reviewed and a lower rate is needed. Indeed, the practice of up front
payments until the next cycle of loan payments needs review as well.

8. Credit Base Re-Loan System: Micro businesses should be assisted in a

stage based loan systems. For instance, micro businesses can be given a loan
of RM2500 at the first stage and as they repay the loans, they can be assisted
for a much higher loan facilities e.g. RM5000. The table below depicts the
concept.

Loan Payment Term Eligibility Upon Processing Time

Amount Full Term
2500 25 Weekly RM5000 48 Hours
5000 50 Weekly RM15000 7 Days
15000 52 Bi-Weekly RM50000 2 Weeks
50000 100 Bi week 1 Month

9. Micro Loan for Home Based Business: Malaysian Indian community has
not fully tapped the home based business as it is hard for them to get loans
from commercial banks or the government. Loans should also be disbursed

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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
 for ladies, single mothers and housewives who intend to start home based
businesses. The criteria should be lighten up to attract more ladies to be
involved in home base business activities which include traditional business
also.

10. Micro-Business Information Dissemination Centre: Due to the lack of

effective information dissemination, society at large feels that their interest is
left out in the process of development. In RM10, centers to disseminate
information regarding loan facilities, and other opportunities provided by the
government should be intensified. A one stop center to facilitate this process
is required in strategic locations so that the facilities and information can
reach the Indian society at large. In addition, temples and Indian NGOs
should be tapped to push information closer to the target groups. This is like
SBA (Small Business Administration) in USA, consist businessmen or retired
staffs. SME Corp is in effective in counseling micro business.

Small Business

Problem Statement: The biggest segment of Malaysian Indian businesses fall into
the small business category. The challenges of these businesses are definitely start
up capital, investments for expansion activities and working capital.

Past Solution: SMIDEC/MIDF/SME

5. Reimbursement Basis: like Start Up Grant by SMIDEC, Marketing/
Promotional Grants etc.
6. Process and Decision Time : 6 months and more
7. Usually not accessible and available in remote areas
8. Lack of transparency in the process. Limited transparency allows and provides
rooms for every fail application to perceive it as racial biasness by Indian
applicant.

Proposal

1. Franchise Business Boost: There is an urgent need to expand the franchise

business schemes to Malaysian Indians. A realistic target is to create 50
Franchise Malaysian Indian Franchise Businesses to be created with 100 Local
Indian Business Franchise in next 5 years. Currently, PNB through PNS have
been working on a similar concept. It is recommended that the Franchise
programs that are currently allocated only for Bumiputeras to be open for
Malaysian Indians as well. Since, the Malaysian Indians involve in different
types of business, the expansion of franchise concept to Indian business
generally will create more spillovers to the economy between 2011-2016, and
more Malaysian Indian businesses on a franchise concept should be created.

2. Advancing Franchising at Global Scale: Malaysian Indian businesses in

Malaysia are not getting enough help, expertise or know-how in franchising
their business on a global scale. Nevertheless, currently, a number of
Malaysian Indian businesses have great potential to be franchised that can
eventually benefit the nation as a whole. With adequate planning in RM10,
this could be the beginnings of a building a global franchise presence.
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Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
 Therefore, it is recommended that in RM10, 100 new Malaysian Indian
franchise businesses to be assisted under various programs like PNS and
others. Currently, Malaysian Indians do not have the awareness and
incentives to move forward in this direction. The incentive can be delivered in
the form of Consultation, Grants, Loans and Franchise Development Training.
Hence, 10% of the funds allocated for National Franchise program should be
assigned to Malaysian Indian businesses.

3. Vendor Development Program: GLCs and MNCs, among others, train and
develop vendors under the vendor development programs. This in return has
created successful local businesses. It is recommended that 100
MalaysianIndians per year to be trained under a similar scheme. This will
ultimately create more business spillover for the nation.

4. Business Opportunities from GLCs: RM10 could also be the beginning for
Malaysian Indians to get business from GLCs. In order to increase the equity
of Malaysian Indians, it is recommended that 10% of contract value to be set
aside for Malaysian Indian businesses/vendors/contractors. This is more
feasible, both politically and economically, to correct the economic imbalance
than just having contracts on an Ali-Baba mode.

5. Local Workers Training Scheme for Small Business: Malaysian Indian

businesses could use this scheme to training more local workers and reduce
dependency on foreign workers. Small business can seek funds from
government to pay for the training and apprentice of local workers. The
training could be conducted by government or private centers. The current
scenario does not provide continuous supply of workforce to local businesses.
For instance, Malaysian Indian restaurant owners face a dilemma in recruiting
local workers and are highly dependent on foreign workforce. Indeed, the
current programs are largely temporary and fail to provide a long term
solution and boost the investors’ confident.

6. Wage Subsidy 5 years: Currently, the small businesses that face shortage
of workers are forced to pay high wage for the recruitment of locals or to be
highly dependent on foreign workers. Small businesses usually resort to
recruiting foreign workers since they are unable to pay higher wages. More
incentives in a form of wage subsidies or tax incentives should be given to
small businesses which recruit local workers.

7. Technology Incentives: Pillar industries for the Malaysian Indian Economy

are: (1) Food/service, (2) Metal/Precious Metal, (3) Transport/Logistic, (4)
Newsstand/Printing and (5) Retail/Textile. These industries are labour
intensive and modernize; the government has to provide loans and
incentives. Currently, the incentive programs under various ministries are
hard to come by for Malaysian Indian businesses that are not savvy and not
too well organized. Hence, it is recommended that a special allocation is
given for technological and equipment improvement specifically for these
pillar industries. The grants and incentives should include technology
consultation activities, training and equipment upgrading and the like. For
instance, restaurant owners could implement the POS systems to enhance the
management quality.

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Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10: Proposal Paper
Feb 25th 2010
8. Malaysian Indian Women Participation in Businesses: Malaysian Indian
women are left behind compared to their counterparts in other races. It is
recommended that the government create at least 500 new enterprises for
Malaysian Indian women. A Special Program or Scheme could be developed
under the Ministry of Women Affairs and Community Development to boost
awareness and to provide training, grants/loans as well as supervision. The
industry of interest should include marketing services, beauty, training,
food/service, green technology, small scale manufacturing activities, human
resource services, cottage industries and others.

9. Home Based Business Boost: Creating 1000 home based businesses under
various programs specifically for Women (Example, housewives, single
mothers and the disabled). A specific program by relevant ministry (e.g.
Ministry of Women Affairs and Community Development) is needed at each
level. The home-based businesses must be supported by grants, training,
supervision and facilitation. The Chinese model of such program can be
absorbed in this case. Industries such as food/service, catering, crafts,
bakery, internet-based business, florist and telemarketing should be
encouraged. Additionally, the Ministry should also create more awareness
programs on the issues of home-based businesses.

10. Graduate Business Community: Young entrepreneurs are the engine of

growth of the economy. Likewise, it is also a tool to reduce unemployment
among graduates. It is recommended that the government assist and support
the Malaysian Indian graduates to start up new businesses in areas like
financial services, healthcare, consultation services, R&D related services, and
others. A target of assisting 1000 new Malaysian Indian graduates in these
new businesses not common for Indians is important. The program should be
specifically tailored towards graduates who are less than 35 years old who
successfully undergoes training and consultation. They should be given loan
facilities not less than RM500K to start and to develop their businesses.
Additionally, during the training, the graduates need to be paid living
allowances not less than RM1500/month and this is should be part of the
loan. The loan should be flexible enough to be converted to grant of equal
amount, upon paying taxes within 25 years of operation.

11. Traditional Cultural and Art Businesses: In the RM10,it is important to

develop and catalyze the traditional businesses. RM10 should also promote
and cultivate new enterprises that are related to cultural and traditional-based
business or services. These businesses include Dance Academy, Cultural
sports, Cultural craft, Musical Equipment Manufacturing, Cultural Skill Training
Centre, Sculpture, Theater Shows and Jewelry manufacturing. These
industries are important for tourism and it is a unique attraction for Malaysia.
Currently, most of the supplies are imported from India and in will be an
added advantage if Malaysia were to develop these industries. The programs
to develop these industries should specific and parked under the Ministry of
Heritage and Culture. The programs should include training, study
scholarships (India), consultation as well as loans/grants.

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12. Young Indian Participation in the Stock and Equity Market: More effort
is needed in the RM10 to engage the Indians to participate in the stock and
equity market. The lack of participation is due to funding constraints and
knowledge. Traditionally, Malaysian Indian doesn’t have the mindset for
portfolio investments. It is recommended that the government provide
training for 200 qualified Malaysian Indian Youths to participate in stock and
equity markets as stock brokers and remisiers. The program is to be
conducted by Bank Negara or other affiliated agencies. Adequate exposure,
training and coaching will ensure the Malaysian Indians participation in this
sector.

13. Development of Malaysia Indian in Lacking Sectors: As clearly

indicated, the Malaysian Indian Community participation in certain sector,
namely manufacturing, agriculture, utility, construction, finance, wholesale
and retail sector is grossly lacking. The government and private sector need
to implement broad range of assistance programmes to facilitate entry of
Indian entrepreneurs into manufacturing and modern services sectors,
particularly in the SMIs.

• Special packaged programmes implemented for the

participation Bumiputeras entrepreneurs to be extended
to the Indian entrepreneurs, for example vendor
development programmes for privately owned
companies in automotive, motorcycle and halal food
industries including government owned companies such
as Petroleum Nasional Bhd, Tenaga Nasional Bhd,
Telekom Bhd and MISC.
• Issues of licenses and permits to Indians should be
given priority for example 5% of taxi, bas persiaran and
lorry permits; 5% allocation of businesses in petrol
stations and Proton dealership.
• A request for the Ministry of Entrepreneurial
Development to set up a special fund for Indian
entrepreneurs similar to the RM 2 billion fund for the
Bumiputera providing seed capital for start ups and
business expansion.
• Open avenues for Indian contractors to participate in
Class A & B schemes in infrastructure and construction
sector.
• Adequate allocation of funds to intensify the Malaysian
Indian participation in Manufacturing, Green
Technology, Bio tech, Information & Communication
Technology (ICT), Education, Health Tourism,
professional and consultancy services.

14. Partnership/JV Scheme: To grow, Malaysian Indian businesses are actively

seeking partnerships and joint venture arrangements as a source of fund and
knowledge transfer. It is proposed that the government facilitate these
businesses to engage in partnership and Joint ventures. A program to create
500 potential partnerships with established business owners in selected
industries like Halal, Export/Import service, Technology Intensive Industries,

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Feb 25th 2010
 Green Technology and Finance is proposed. The program includes creating
awareness, training, coaching, consultation, loan/grant and supervision. The
program can be parked within the SME Corp under Malaysian Indian
Partnership scheme. With a loan allocation of up to RM1million, it is possible
to create 500 new businessmen within 5 years.

15. Levy for Locals Working Abroad: Industries face shortage of local workers
due to migration of local workers abroad (e.g. Singapore) and massive growth
of labour intensive industries in the past decades. This ultimately forces local
businesses to employ foreign workers, which costs more in wholesome and
produces negative net value for the country and society. It is the time for the
government to impose annual levy on local workers working abroad similar to
the practices of some government like Indonesian government. Singapore
have taken many measures to safeguard their industries from being
victimized by migration forces, however Malaysia remain as “ tidak apa state”
even after have such a huge problem on illegal workers. The annual levy will
make the salary and exchange rate benefits less attractive to our local
workers abroad. The logistic of tracking and implementing, we leave it to the
experts at EPU. This might not fly very well with ASEAN but we could justify
it. The biggest beneficiary of this levy would be the service and food
industries which is one of the pillar economies for Malaysian Indians.
16. Permanent Business Loan: Small business should be able to excess
permanent loan programs. Currently SME Corp do have few products for
small business but it is on reimbursement terms. This type of scheme might
not work for capital challenge owners. So government has to setup a
moderate term business loan for small businesses with relatively short
processing hours like 2 weeks. Loan facilities are the fertilizer for the growth
of small enterprise in any country.

17. Invite Business Association to Assist: To recommend that the

government should offer funding for any proven nation wide business
association on Entrepreneurial Development and Skills Training Centre
(EDSTC). The centre should guide Indian youths in basic skills training, advise
on starting a small business, licensing arrangement and credit facilities. It
should be set up at every state with full accreditation from the government so
that banks and other agencies can assist them for loan facilitation and project
approvals.

The EDSTC need to offer consultancy services to overcome typical

problems of the Indian SMEs that includes:-

• Small family owned business

• Labour intensive with low capital
• Limited production capacity
• Limited Capital
o Utilizing simple technology
o Limited specialization
o Inappropriate marketing literature
• Non competitiveness interms of price, service quality, packaging
etc.

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Feb 25th 2010
 • Limited Market Accessibility due to lack of marketing expertise,
lack of R&D unattractive packing and labeling
• Technological levels

18. Uninterrupted Labour Supplies for Malaysian Indian Pillar Industries:

In the past 15 years Malaysian Indians have made great progress in 5
prominent Pillar Industries, thanks to government policies on foreign labours.
The industries are
• Service & Food Industries
• Recycle, Metal & Precious Metal
• Newsstand and Printing
• Transport and Logistic
• Retail & Textile
To ensure the continuous growth of these industries, the government
must ensure and take great care of the labour supply issues. The
survival of these industries highly depends on uninterrupted labour. In
the past decades, there were a constant changes in the labour
policies that have had cost the Malaysian Indian businessmen millions
in cost as well as in business growth in general. RM10 must take into
account these request closely. Since the entire pillar industries of
Malaysian Indians are labour intensive, thus the degree of
dependency towards foreign labour is slightly higher and any
disruption on labour supply will directly affect the livelihood of
thousands of Malaysian Indian businessmen. It is imperative for the
government to establish a long term policy measures with regards to
foreign and local workers. Some of the long term measures that
require serious attention include the following:
• Serious attention towards tackling the wide spread of corruption in
the supply and demand chain of foreign labour in the country. It has
been so long that the issue is been pushed under the carpet and it is
time, now, to address it for permanent solution.
• Weak and ineffective enforcement due to corruption, non-clear
guidelines and too many overlapping authorities
• Simplification of procedure for foreign worker’s new applications,
renewal process, replacement and cancellations.
• Lack of enforcement and crack down on illegal workers: Projected to
be around 2mil in the country by labour department 2009. It is time to
intensify the enforcement on the crack down of illegal workers.
• Review the Levy Policies which viewed to be main course of VISA
abuse. Example, plantation workers annual levy is RM400 while service
industry is RM1800 annually. The levy for all industries must be
synchronized. Tax Exemptions for local hiring companies would be a
great move toward localizing our work force. USA and Singapore uses
this method in protecting of their local labour force.
• Intensify JPK Skill Training and Private Training Centers on the pillar
industries to reduce the dependency on foreign workers by 50% in the
next 5 years without interrupting the labour supply and healthy growth
of the pillar industries.

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Feb 25th 2010
 • Awareness of Labour Laws, employers’ responsibilities and unyielding
enforcement will surely make this industry more attractive and
rewarding for local job seekers.
• Government must also engage the pillar industries’ representative to
draw a comprehensive blue print in regards to foreign labour issues.
Without proactive, sincere, consultative move between the
government and the pillar industries, the government’s fear of out flow
of investment to India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and other Asian countries
are great.
• We have estimated close to RM200mil collective investment is at
stake waiting for permanent labour policy from the government or the
risk of loosing this investment to our more inviting neighboring
countries remains very high.
• Double Tax Incentive for employers that hires local workers. Through
this employers will have great tax incentive to work even harder in
recruiting local workers. The additional cost is absorbed through tax
relief.

EDUCATION
Problem Statement: Education is the most important driver for poverty
eradication, political stability, unity, and economic development. It is also important
to bridge the gap between the poor and the rich. The education system is constantly
used for political agendas that deprive one’s right to freely choose their path
especially in public education. Currently, the Malaysian Indians are very much
dissatisfied with overall provision of education in Malaysia. The Malaysian Indians
recognize the importance of societal integration and unity in nation building and also
believe that this should be achieved without infringing the rights enshrined in the
constitution and social agreement. The government and EPU should not think that
Tamil school educated citizens are any less patriotic compared to a national school
educated citizens. Policies seem to favors the national schools, making the
vernaculars school unattractive and inadequate. Government has a golden
opportunity to show the Malaysian Indians its noble and sincere intention to solve
impending issues on education in Tamil school on “Mega Impact Projects” within 18
months. We are sure this will win the hearts and minds of Malaysian Indians.

In the Past:

1. SPM 10 Subject Issues: Creates suspicion among all Indian about

government’s real intention. The decision was taken unilaterally by the
ministry without consulting the society or the vernacular educationists.
2. Merit System & Matriculation: This system is proven to be flawed and has
caused distrust in the government’s intention to make sure the system is
based on merit and not race.
3. Tamil Schools ill aided, under-funded and not expanded in line with their
growth and this has left Indians disappointed with the government.. The
Tamil school issues are always a political agenda and no long term solution is
available.

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Feb 25th 2010
 4. UPSR – Tamil School: - “Peralihan” classes for under achievers in UPSR are
the main cause for dropouts and no effective solution is available to help the
students to catch up in education. Issues of concerns are student discipline;
well trained teachers to handle under achievers, proper curriculum specifically
designed for under achievers, and others.
5. Issues of Tamil School Classification- SKM (Sekolah Separa Model), SBM
(Sekolah Bantuan Modal) Grade B, Grade A (Sekolah Bantuan Penuh)
6. Issues of Attachment Teachers and Training.

Proposal

1. Higher Education & Matriculation Quota System (10%): We are seeking

the government to do away with the merit system for IPTS intakes including
for the matriculation programs. Currently, due to lack of transparency,
intakes for matriculation and IPTS sideline the Indians. The evidence is
apparent in universities where Indians have limited opportunity in getting the
courses they prefer although they are well qualified. In addition, treating
STPM and matriculation as the same entry qualification for university intake is
not justifiable. It is important, that the government establish one university
entry system. It is also recommended that a 10% quota for Malaysian Indians
is given for all courses in matriculation and IPTS.

2. Scrap “Peralihan” level for the UPSR under achievers from Vernacular
Schools. : Currently the ‘peralihan’ classes are the factory for all dropouts.
Students in these classes are labeled as low achievers and this demotivates
the students further. In addition, the classes are conducted in a manner that
will not uplift these poor performing students. Lack of proper activities,
attention, guidance especially tailored for poor performers contributes to the
dropout phenomena. It is recommended that these system to be scrapped.

In place of this, Standard 6 students from SJK(T) should be inducted, after

sitting UPSR. The induction could take form in two ways

Students from SJK(T) should be sent to Sekolah kebangsaan for

transition; or Retired teachers from Sekolah Menengah are sent to
SJK(T) to teach UPSR under achievers in the same school itself.

3. New Tamil Schools to be build in the population with average and more
than 200 Malaysian Indian families within 5 KM radius in a given district
especially in Selangor (especially in Klang and Petaling Jaya), Perak, Johor,
Penang and Kedah. With better Tamil school performance records and
increasing demand for the Tamil schools in these areas, new schools are
urgently needed. It is recommended that allocation is provided in the RM10 to
build 10 new Tamil schools that is fully aided (Sekolah Bantuan Penuh).

4. New Tamil Private School: To reduce the burden of the government, it is

recommended that the government allows the private sector to participate in
the primary and secondary education system especially for new Tamil schools.
With significant quality control by the government, this approach would be a
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Feb 25th 2010
 viable option. The government could provide incentives, grants, licenses or
even loans for this purpose. 5 years of tax exemption and 99 years land
lease for private initiatives in venturing into Tamil primary and secondary
school would directly reduces the burden of the government and ignite a high
growth in Tamil base education to meet the double digit demand trend.

5. Tamil Land Acquisition Issue: SRJK Tamil Tun Aminah & Kinrara Puchong.
These two schools are still struggling with the issue of land acquisition and
lack of proper infrastructure. There are still having difficulties in qualifying for
Sekolah Bantuan Penuh scheme. Although these issues have been raised
many times there is resolution in sight.

6. “Sekolah Cantuman” – Approximately 50% of the 523 Tamil schools are

under SKM (Sekolah Kurang Murid) especially in estates. It is proposed that
these schools be combined to from a Grade B schools that is fully government
aided. Sekolah Cantuman Chaah Johor is one of the successful examples of
“sekolah cantuman”. Sekolah Kurang Murid (SKM) should also be re-classified
under Grade C which is Skim Bantuan Modal

7. 75% KPM Ownership from 11% currently (58): Currently, only 11% of
the Tamil schools are fully aided with KPM land title. It is recommended that
the percentage be increased to at 75% by the end of the RM10.

8. Disparity Among Male and Female Teachers in Tamil School : Currently,

Tamil School have been overwhelmingly dominated by female teachers. The
female teachers are finding it difficult to impose discipline, to engage in sports
activities and other male friendlier activities. It is important to achieve gender
equality in this aspect. RM10 we could reduce the ratio female to male
teacher to 60 : 40

9. 10% PTD (Pegawai Tadbir & Diplomatic): Recruitment for PTD positions
was limited for Malaysian Indians in the past. It is recommended that the
government ensures 10% of the PTD recruitment for Indians.

10. Malaysian Indian School Counselor: Primary & Secondary schools with
significant Malaysian Indian population need to appoint qualified Indian
Counselor to deal with disciplinary cases. Tamil School (Grade A and Grade
B) must also appoint counselors to deal with problematic students. A ratio of
500 students per counselor should be the target in the RM10.

11. POC (People’s Own Culture) in Secondary Schools: All secondary school
must be given a POC programs apart from the POL (People’s Own Language).
This will reduce the free time and nurture the growth of culture. Cultural
studies is more important then sex education which is gaining support now
among all quarters, which we agree is important for a balanced growth of
students and could can prevent unwarranted activities.

12. DBP-Dewan Bahasa & Pustaka Tamil Translation Unit: Tamil schools are
facing acute shortage of reference books in science and technology related
subjects such as computers, biology and mathematic for students’ reference
and general knowledge. Although these books can be imported from India, a

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Feb 25th 2010
 more proactive measure would be to provide incentives for the local
publishers to publish or to assign DBP to translate from other languages to
Tamil language.

13. Government Study Loans (Local and Abroad): Students should be able to
seek loans to pursue studies locally and abroad. Currently, the PTPTN loans
are only for those recognized local studies. However, in certain cases
important critical areas of study are only available overseas. Government can
identify fields of studies and type of schools for candidates to be eligible for
study loans. Example of field of study includes Green Technology, Indian
Culinary arts, Manufacturing Technology, Aerospace, Piloting, and others. The
loan repayments can be similar to that of commercial banks which is always
difficult to obtain. Loan from government can be guaranteed by parents with
requirement to return home or full payment otherwise their passports could
be revoked.

SOCIAL

1. Alcohol Laws and Programs in Malaysia: Government has to recognize

that alcohol consumption is growing problem among youths and especially
Malaysian Indian youths that need urgent attention. Ministry of Youth need to
take this initiative. Malaysia Hindu Sangam with a coalition of NGOs has
initiated the effort to check this scourge. RM10 has to recognize the
importance of creating KRAs and prepare KPIs for ministry on the following
issues.

1. 21 to Drink – Change the current age limit of 18

2. Criminalize Public Drinking Displays and Intoxicated Person
3. Setting up : Malaysia Alcohol Research and Rehab Centre
4. Criminalize & Arrestable Offence for Minors To Consume Alcohol
5. All Alcohol Retailing should be confined to Liquor Shops with
controlled business hours
6. All eateries that dispense alcohol of any type must acquire liquor
license. It is for all types of alcohol drinks inclusive of cocktail and
beer.
7. Alcohol advertisements in all mainstream Media - Electronic,
Alternative and Printing Media should be banned completely.
8. Mandatory jail terms for Alcohol Smuggling, illegal trade and Law
Breakers
9. Banning the manufacturing, trading and retailing of Local illegal
Brands such as Samsu & Todi
10. Taxation System based on Alcohol content will increase
government’s tax revenue by another RM200Mil
11. Anti Alcohol Slogan on all labels including reminders from major
religions

2. Youth Gangsterism: Government has to recognize the seriousness of this

issue. Government has to provide funding (10Mil) for NGOs to be involved in
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Feb 25th 2010
 preventive measures especially in curbing Gangsterism. Creating Peace Clubs
in Schools through KPM as part of their co-curriculum is essential. Police to
hold more talks in school on the issue with students and kids. Placing Police in
secondary schools with serious discipline issues could be seen as alternative
to curb discipline problems. Western countries’ school have adapted this
method widely and proofed to be effective.
3. National Service: National Service is known for its effective methods in
shifting mindset of our young youths. During RM10 we are asking government
to place all the Malaysian Indian students with challenge disciplines and
gangsterism problems into NS programs. We are seeking the government to
additional allocation for Malaysian Indian students by 50000 during the RM10.

4. Skill & Mindset Training: Ex-convicts, who are less than 40 years old and
have no serious crime record, should be enrolled in SKILL & Mindset Training.
Subsequently, they can be absorbed as general worker in government and
private sectors. The government can provide incentives for a year to
encourage the hiring of ex-convicts. Additionally, they can be requested to
attend frequent counseling in assigned counseling centers or registered NGOs
with counseling programs. These efforts will reduce the tendency of those
involved in crime not to go back to the similar activities in the future. Such
programs were successful in the US and have shown dramatic
improvements. In addition, upon successful completion of the program, they
should be eligible for micro loan programs to start a business.

5. Youth Organization Permanent Allocation: should be provided annually to

all Malaysian Indian Youth NGOs: Currently, the allocation comes from MBM
(Majlis Belia Malaysia) and limits the NGOs to conduct effective programs.
The allocation is difficult to obtain by Malaysian Indian Youth NGOs. Since
these programs are an integral part of Youth development in Malaysia, it is
recommended that the allocation of 10 million to be provided to registered
NGOs for their various approved programs. This should be done at national,
state and district program levels. Programs related to Education, Culture,
Sport, Alcohol, Gangsterism, Violence Crime and School Dropouts should be
emphasize since these are the striking issues among Malaysian Indian youth.
The government should set KPIs to monitor these NGOs.

6. Sport NGOs & Funding: Malaysian Indians in Malaysia used to be leading

the sports arena but today not only Malaysian Indian participation is limited
but at national level the performance is poor. Sports are the best way to
channel the energy into good causes, preventing the youths from any major
illegal activities. It is recommended that more allocation be channeled to
boost the creation of more SPORTs NGOs. Example includes the Futsal Club
Petaling Jaya, Persatuan Sepak Takraw Paloh and others. The government
has to give incentives, in RM10, for NGOs to be set up and allocate funds for
events and program. In RM10, we are urging the government to consider
creating 100 new Malaysian Indian cultural and sport NGOs nationwide. This
can be parked under the Ministry of Youth. As a long term measure, the
creation of NGOs will eventually distract youths from engaging in illegal
activities which is costing the government a significant amount.

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Feb 25th 2010
7. Wedding Course & Counseling before Registration: Divorce and
Parenting flaws is costing the society and government millions on the expense
of their kids. Currently, Muslim weddings are to be solemnized after wedding
courses but the same is not applicable to non-Muslims. This wedding course is
proven to be effective and imposing such pre requisite is important for the
non-Muslims. This course can be conducted by the religious NGOs. The main
frame course to be provided by the Ministry of Women. Make HIV & Health
test a must for all wedding registration. This is also a way to impose and
implement child support. Couples must be trained on parenting. Likewise,
Malaysia Hindu Sangam can engage in Wedding Course for all Hindu couples.
Hence, it is recommended that mandatory marriage courses be implemented
before the legal marriage registration. Additionally, for divorce couples a
counseling session is important before the couples are eligible for divorce
application.

8. Domestic Abuse: Indians from lower economic strata are victims of

domestic abuse. Although the law requests an arrest, seldom the abusers get
punished. Little is done by the Police and the Ministry to overcome this
problem. More over, the kids and the mothers of such abuse are left without
any support. As such, it is recommended that in RM10 serious steps be taken
in terms of allocating hostels for mother and the kids as temporary refuge.
Consequently, financial support is needed for such cases. The Ministry of
Women must also formulate even more harsh laws to protect this kids and
mothers. Usually alcohol, drugs, unemployment, and financial condition are
the main reasons for the problem. One in 4 poverty prone families are
affected by this phenomenon. Two in 3 kids from these families are dropouts.
Two in 4 kids that are dropouts are involved in illegal activities that may
involve violent crimes.

9. Single Mother: Single Mother must be redefined to include, OKU husbands,

separated women, and widows. : Single mothers to be given opportunities to
own house through the government’s low cost housing programs. It is
recommended that under RM10, Indian single mother to be assisted to own
houses with at least a target of 1000 low cost houses. E-Kasih can be used as
a platform to identify these poor families. The rental payment approach could
be implemented for the purchase of the houses. In the past these practices
failed due to corruption, unethical politic motives and red tape. RM10 could be
the right platform to set the KPI on the basis of house ownerships.

10. Adult Community Night Classes: Once a week classes revolving around
unity, business opportunities, parenting, government programs, racial
integration and others is needed. The attendees of this program could be
given allowances like the Train & Place Program according to their
attendance. NGOs or welfare department should organize these classes at
strategic areas especially within the vicinity of the poor and uneducated
society as well as crime prone areas. Examples, Taman Dato Harun. Taman
Sri Sentosa, Sentul, Taman Sri Andalas, and others. RM10 could start an
effort in integrating the people and educating them substantially.

11. “Stateless Malaysian Indian”: Estimated close to 100K Malaysian Indian

still undocumented and “stateless” due to no birth certificates proof or

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Feb 25th 2010
 incomplete supporting documentations. These groups are not part of any
system, statistic or studies. They are invisible undocumented Malaysians.
Thus their needs are not identified, targeted and fulfilled but they exist.
Government has to address this issue and ensure this “stateless
“phenomenon to be totally eradicated by 2016. Former Prime Minster
Abdullah Ahmad Badawi have acknowledge the problem and surprised to
discover, but yet any nationwide effort or awareness been carried out to
address these issues in rapid and wholesome fashion. The kids of these
forgotten groups are unable to attend schools or their parents are unable to
get permanent job or eligible for housing or even welfare assistance.

12. Social Obligation of Entertainment, Media & Press: Malaysian Indians

are the highest spender in terms of per capita for movies and this is a known
fact. The entertainment has a great influence in the behavioral aspects of
Malaysian Indian youth ranging from the fashion influence, language influence
and to the attitude influence. Thus, we urge the government:

1. To strengthen the censorship policies on Tamil movies, especially from

India and subject them to same level standard in violence and sexual
content. In the reason year’s Tamil movies have been one of the main
contributors of gangsterism, violence and morals decays in youths.
Censorship board has been very relax on foreign Tamil movies and the
rating is questionable and inconsistence if compared with our values
and moral. In the recent days movies like Kandasamy, Goa and
Ayirathil Oruvan were latest proof of failed censorship in sexual
content.
2. We recommend higher taxes on violence and sexual content movies
and limit violence and sexual content movies for private viewing only.
3. Ban on gambling and alcohol companies sponsorships on youth base
programs. Example, Astro Vanavil’s Aatam 100 Vagai is sponsored by
Damacai and THR Magnum Concerts are sponsored by Magnum.
4. Requirement for private Medias to allocate 2% of their airtime/space
for community development programs and disseminating information.

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Feb 25th 2010
Government Policies
Government Policy should forcefully ensure that it allows all society members to
participate in the economy especially with regards to government programs and
initiatives. However, the government has been little slow in making policy to
show its commitment in certain issues.

• Policy in West Malaysia: It is recommended that the government

declares a 10% allocation for critical areas of interest so that
proportionate participation is achieved at every level. The 10%
allocation for Malaysian Indian such include areas as follows:
1. Civil Service Employment 10%: Government has to
proactively meet the participation quota of Malaysian Indian in
civil services.. It is recommended that in RM10, additional of
75000 employments in given in every category of civil services.
Currently, Malaysian Indians represent less than 4% of civil
servant force. This area was overlooked for a long time and its
time now to act fast and swiftly.
2. PTD – Pegawai Tadbir & Diplomatic: We are recommending
that at the end of RM10, the government achieves a target of
10% of Malaysian Indian participation for PTD. Government
must fix the disparity in opportunities in every government
sectors to ensure the success in winning the hearts of the
people and moving forward with trust and respect.
3. Military/Polis/Enforcement: 10% of the new recruitment
must be filled with Malaysian Indians and by 2020(RM11) these
sector must be able show a 10% participation of Malaysian
Indians.
4. GLCs : Employment, Business & Participation : Government
has to engage and erase some of the unwritten and unspoken
policies. TNB. Telekom, Petronas and etc must now open to
employ Malaysian Indians accordingly. Government must make
affirmative policy for GLC to meet the quota. GLCs are seen to
be Malay oriented companies in public perception.
5. Education: IPTA & Matriculation: Intake for Matriculation and
IPTA must be synchronized with national policy of 10% and
merit system need to be discontinued. JPA Scholarships to be
awarded according to the 10% quota, so the Malaysian Indian
student does not get sidelined by merit requirement. IPTA
offers that was rejected by Malaysian Indian students must be
given to another Malaysian Indian and not to be given away to
others.
6. Skill Training & JPK: Under the RM10, we suggest the
government to allocate RM50Mil of study loan with “saradiri” of
RM350/month allowances through PTPK for Malaysian Indian’s
Skill Training Scheme up to DKM level. Government needs to
make policies and ruling for private MLVK/JPK institutions to
offer up to level 3 in disciplines of their choice. Meaning, they
should not be allowed to do Level one or level two only but,
must be a complete set up to level 3. Currently there a great

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Feb 25th 2010
 number of private operator offering only Level 1 and 2 and
upon completion the students are left to find another institute
to continue their studies. This has resulted in only 20% or less
pursuing to level 3. The 80% of those who have completed
Level 1 and 2 are found to be inadequate for the employment
entry level in the market. Additionally, which sufficient push to
level three, this path is less viable as carrier options that will
enhance social-economic wellbeing of the Malaysian Indiana.
Likewise, we also urge JPK to look hard into MQA accredited
Skill University for those wanting to continue to diploma and
degree level. These ideas been bouncing around for awhile in
MOHR because of unresolved coordination between IPTA &
MQA. Let’s put a firm date on the Skill University with 10%
allocation for Malaysian Indian students in various and
demanding field like, healthcare, oil & gas, aerospace,
automobile, green tech, civil & construction, networking and
etc.
7. Business Loan/Grants: Allocation of Business Funding must
be established under SME Corp. Government is asked to recruit
more commercial banks to approve more business loans to
Malaysian Indian business communities. Currently, getting
business loans in commercial banks for SMEs are a “miracle”,
although the government and the banks proudly announce such
facilities. Similarly, the government grants are hard to come by
to Malaysian Indian business. The mindset is always been on “
how to disapprove” and not on “ how to approve”. So there
should be a KPI requirements and change of mindset in
government grant and loan processing.
8. Federal Tenders: Malaysia belongs to all Malaysian, so does
the government business accordingly. However due to lack of
transparency or clear policy direction the federal business has
been a “jackpot lottery” only to few Malaysian contractors.
Indians should be allowed to register as Class F Contractors at
the Central Works Registry and this registration should not be
reserved for Bumiputra contractors alone. An Indian contractor
should not be forced to obtain only sub-contract jobs from
Malay contractors who are registered, as
it is currently practiced. Most Indian contractors do not have
the financial capacity to wrestle jobs from the more established
Chinese contractors and they need assistance at the starting
blocks as Class F contractors.
9. APs : We seek 10% APs to be given to Malaysian Indians
accordingly, so that the wealth is distributed equally among all
law abiding citizen of the land. The transparency in AP awards
will reduce the suspicion of “rakyat” on the government.
• One Malaysia Language: Recognize and declare Mandarin and Tamil
as part of 1Malaysia Language: Multi-Lingual Information
dissemination is great and effective communication mode. Government
should look into additional choices on Mandarin and Tamil. “ Bahasa
Jiwa Bangsa” it is the best way to imprint, penetrate and so much so
to ensure smooth flow of information to all quarters regardless of

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Feb 25th 2010
 their proficiency in English and Malay languages. Singapore has done a
great job in creating a multi-lingual environment and yet they have
great sense belongings as Singaporean. We recognize our National
Language privilege position but we also must ensure the information
and connectivity through languages remain strong by all means.
Establishing Multi-Lingual signage in the spirit of 1Malaysia should be a
good starting point. Sign boards are constant reminder that we all are
recognized, respected and diversity celebrated under the proud stripes
of “jalur gemilang”.
• Language Unity: Government has to encourage more Malays to learn
Mandarin and Tamil, and vice versa Malays and Malaysian Indians to
learn Mandarin and more Malays and Malaysian Chinese to learn Tamil.
A Chinese that speaks Tamil naturally will be closer to Indians and
accordingly other who understands other people language and cuture
would be closer with each other. Unity by language integration is the
fasters approach in reducing the growing unity gap.
• Malaysian Indian Term: Malaysian Indians must not be referred as
Indian. Indian refers to the citizen of India. Reference of “orang India”
is an insult and questioning our Malaysian Citizenship. We are seeking
the government to correct this overlooked terms of reference to official
announce it is Malaysian Indian or Malaysian of Indian roots. In the
same token we are strongly recommend the government to classify a
series words that deemed to be sensitive, racially motivated and unity
destroyer. Example “ Kaum Pendatang”, “Keling” and etc. A set of
legislation should be drafted to spell out clearly and in the strongest
way possible to punish those uses intentionally or unintentionally
racially and religiously sensitive words, name callings, race implication
and racist terms to create sensitivity in the country. We have survived
enough race base controversies in the country before and we cant
afford to let it go on any longer. Seditious Act must be amended to
include clear definition of those acts.
• Look Forward: Dasar Pandang Kehadapan: Enough of finger
pointing, enough of blaming, enough of hating and enough of racial
base division. Let’s move friendly and forward. Putting all our
differences behind and our future in front, we Malaysian can make it
happen. In the past, it was our courage, unity and trust that moved
the country forward and surely its going to be the unity and
togetherness regardless of race and religion that will move the
economy at large into the next millennium. And, common interest of
living in harmony is the answer. Let’s Move Friendly & Forward:

Mr. Prime Minister please makes it happen.

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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
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Feb 25th 2010
Private Sector & NGOs: RM10th Role
Government is an important agent of society’s growth but not the only agent. The
Private and NGOs play a very crucial role in echoing the government and society’s
intentions. RM10 is the right platform for private sectors and NGOs to join hands
with the government to work towards the development agenda of the Indians in
Malaysia

• Coalition and Collaboration : “Bersatu Teguh Bercerai Roboh”

1. Indian Based Business Cooperative to join and setup an

investment consortium to raise RM100mil to venture into businesses
such as budget Health care, Green Technology, Construction and
Hospitality. Currently, great number of cooperatives (around 30
cooperatives) is functioning on their own and this has left them with
very minimal capital. It is time for them to put their limited funds
together and make bigger investments for a more lucrative return.

2. Investment Exploration Committee: All business NGOs should

work closely with Chambers of Commerce to explore and lobby
business opportunities in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal,
Pakistan, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia, Philippines and the
African continent. Currently, there is a lack of joint efforts in
establishing business ventures. Collaboration between the NGOs and
Chambers of Commerce can also collectively create funds and
investment for this purpose.

3. Indian Base NGOs: The mantra is working together or merging NGOs

that is not active with the active ones. Consolidating NGOs means we
are getting stronger to plan, to execute and to grow. Currently,
working together is not the popular approach, but for long term
survival and vision accomplishment NGOs have to work together.
NGOs could be consolidated into 6 categories: Religious/Caste,
Cultural/Language, Youth/Education, Welfare, Political and Sports.

4. Indian Base Medias: The Malaysian Indian based media should re-
invent themselves so that they can better serve the society. They
should play more of an informative role with regards to government
policies, opportunities, programs and the like. The media itself has to
be the catalyst of proactive and positive mindset and growth for
Malaysian Indians. Currently, the Tamil Newspapers are still trailing
behind in terms of attractiveness, content, innovation and quality in
comparison with other language newspapers. TV and Radio are also
another effective and mass media that need to be in line with society’s
aspiration for growth.

5. Indian Political Base Association: Although, each of us have our

own ideology and principles it is time that all Indian political
associations to serve the needs and interests of the people. Unification
of all Indian political association is important. They should be

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Feb 25th 2010
 consolidated. The development of Indians in Malaysia depends upon
not the BN government but Indian Political Parties Unification.

6. Private Sector Initiatives: Indian Philanthropists in Malaysia are the

success icons. Creating protégés and recruiting and assisting qualified
young Indian business to follow their foot step is important. Isolation
from the society upon success endeavors will not leave a legacy.
Create avenues for young boys and girls to see and assimilate the
success in their own form and shape. We encourage Indian
businessmen/women to take even bigger role in the society to
motivate young Malaysian Indians to follow their footsteps.

7. National Entrepreneurship Awareness: One Family One

Entrepreneur. Entrepreneurship is the one of the ways to uplift the
socio-economic standing of Malaysian Indians.. Therefore, it is time
that awareness is created by the NGOs to cultivate entrepreneurship
culture in every Malaysian Indian family.

8. Ministerial, Agencies, GLC & MNC Connection: Owing to lack of

networking between the Malaysian Indian representatives from the
ministry, agencies, GLCs and those working in MNCs, Malaysian
Indians most often miss wide range of the opportunities. Therefore, it
is of paramount importance for the Malaysian Indians to create a
network between themselves especially between those in various
institutions and organizations.

9. Represent the Non-Tamil/Hindu Groups: In the past, most of the

agendas put forward concerns only the Malaysian Indians who are
Hindu Tamilians. However, Indians is Malaysia also include the Indian
Christians, Ceylonese, Indian Muslims, North Indians, Punjabis,
Nepalese and others. As such, it is important that ties between these
groups are strengthen through the voice of freedom and
representation of various NGOs, Associations, Cooperative and Political
Parties.

10. JV & Mu Business NGOs have to seize this opportunity to bring all
small and medium business communities together and embark on
national projects and strengthen the business creation, information
sharing, business education and strong presence.

Conclusion
The 10th Malaysia Plan is a critical juncture in overcoming what was left out, what
was neglected, what was overseen, what was not predicted and what was not
intended. Indians in Malaysia are waiting to see the good gesture from the
government through this plan. We are seeking firm actions so that trust in the
government can be developed.

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Malaysia Hindu Sangam Youth
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Feb 25th 2010
Coalition of Malaysian Indian NGOs is not a team of experts but we are team of
people. Through this proposal, EPU will have clear opportunity to see what is needed
at the grassroots that can be incorporated in development plans to yield results.

We expect:
1. EPU to adapts the core recommendations and develops it into manageable
policies or programs.
2. EPU to ensure an efficient mechanism of delivery and dissemination of
information for the above recommendations if adapted.
3. EPU to engage the NGOs and Associations to be a part of the delivery
mechanism for programs and policies.

We thank you for the opportunity to be heard.

Yours Sincerely,
Arun Dorasamy
Chairman of Economic Task Team
Malaysia Hindu Sangam & Coalition

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Feb 25th 2010