MIC wants 5pc of Budget 2013 for Indians

Palanivel also sent in a “wish list” for the PM’s consideration. — File pic

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 8 — MIC has requested a five per cent special allocation of Budget 2013 for the Indian community’s development activities.

Its president, Datuk Seri G. Palanivel, said he had submitted the request and a “wish list” to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak recently.

He hoped Najib would consider the party’s request.

“This special allocation, if approved, will be used for various development projects to enhance the living standard of the Indian community, in education and development,” he told reporters after opening the 1st Malaysia India Builders Exhibition in Brickfield here today.

The prime minister will table Budget 2013 on September 28.

Palanivel, who is also minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, said the government allocated RM100 million this year for renovation and upgrading works at Tamil schools.

On another matter, Palanivel said the MIC was working with the Public Service Department to increase the number of Indian civil servants by 3,000 by year-end.

“At the same time, we are also working to push for the promotion of Indian staff, especially those who have been long in the service,” he said, adding that it would be carried out in stages. — Bernama