UMNO Kedah Chief: No Issues With MIC Despite State-Level Resolution

KUALA LUMPUR – Kedah UMNO chairman Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid has downplayed speculation of tensions with the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) in the state, saying no problems have arisen so far between the two Barisan Nasional (BN) partners.

“So far, there have been no issues (with MIC Kedah). We expected some dissatisfaction among certain MIC leaders towards BN, but nothing beyond that,” he said.

Mahdzir noted that MIC Kedah’s recent resolution might have stemmed from informal discussions with Perikatan Nasional (PN), but stressed that MIC’s central leadership had already declared its continued support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim until the next general election.

“I don’t know how far the resolution brought by MIC Kedah will be accepted by the central leadership. A few days ago, the MIC secretary-general clearly stated that their support for Anwar remains until GE16,” he added.

He also dismissed suggestions that MIC Kedah would abruptly distance itself from BN.

“If they really wanted to separate, they wouldn’t attend BN programmes. But so far, there haven’t been any BN events. Maybe next month, if there is a programme, we’ll see whether they show up or not,” he explained.

Mahdzir said he had not contacted MIC Kedah leaders on the matter, nor had they reached out to him, but stressed that his relationship with them remained cordial.

“They come to my house for coffee. They are not the type to quarrel. Perhaps they are just emotional at the moment. I don’t know if they are serious or just posturing. If they were serious, they wouldn’t attend BN programmes,” he remarked.

Mahdzir however reminded that party leaders must remain disciplined and not act rashly when dissatisfied.

“As leaders, we cannot behave like that. If there are grievances, they must be addressed properly, not in such a manner,” he said.