Implementation of blueprint for Indian community in the pipeline - Dr Subramaniam

The meeting attended by 30 representatives from non governmental organisations, political parties, corporate bodies and community leaders was chaired by MIC President Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam who is also the Health Minister.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Dr Subramaniam said it was a new initiative to start implementing development plans for the Indian community, especially a new perspective and scope for houses of worship as an effort to bring about transformation to the Indian community.

"Among activities proposed for temples is community related activities, pre-school programmes and initiatives for poor families," he said.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak launched the Malaysian Indian Blueprint in April to resolve problems faced by the Indians and change the socio-economic status of the B40 group.

Dr Subramaniam said another initiative proposed in the meeting was setting up day-care centre with the pilot project initiated in Johor Bahru before expanding to other parts of the country.

Another initiative is to set up a fund with an allocation of RM500 million to assist small entrepreneurs and improve their economic status as well as identify and register the B40 group for programmes that are suitable for them.

"We also discussed the development of Tamil schools and to review and identify any weaknesses in the system," he said.