MIC to review party constitution in transformation efforts - Subramaniam

He said the party would also implement wider democratic values for the grassroots to express themselves.

"For that, several changes will be done, including reviewing and reforming the party constitution to enable the participation of more Indians in the party's activities," he said in his keynote address at the 67th MIC general assembly in Taman Ekspo Pertanian Malaysia Serdang (MAEPS) near here today.

The MIC general assembly was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

Dr Subramaniam also said MIC would provide adequate opportunities to allow its members at all levels, who did not take part in the party re-election, to actively participate in the activities of MIC.

He said the party planned to set up the Malaysia Indian Consultative Council which will become the medium for the party and the community.

"MIC is also keen to set a platform for open dialogue with other political parties to establish a common goal and understanding that can be of mutual benefit," he said.

Dr Subramaniam said he would also discuss with Najib, the prospect of another cabinet minister's post, since he was the only full minister representing the MIC.

When the Prime Minister named his new cabinet after the 2013 general election, there were two ministers from the MIC, namely Datuk Seri G Palanivel (Natural Resources and Environment Minister) and Dr Subramaniam (Health Minister) but the former was dropped when Najib announced the new cabinet on July 28, 2015 after a cabinet reshuffle.

Meanwhile, speaking to reporters, Dr Subramaniam said he would ensure the party remained relevant and continue to upgrade the socio economic status of the Indian community in the country.

The MIC is also ready to overcome all political challenges and education issues faced by the Indian community, he said.

Dr Subramaniam said the re-election process for the party's leadership would help transform the party that has been facing numerous issues.

"To me and the party, there is a significant meaning to it...we will carry out the transformation, not only for the party but for the community as well.

The future of the party depends on the relationship between the community and us in the party. We will ensure that all MIC members will bury their differences and form a better understanding and relationship," he said.

Dr Subramaniam also denied the party was practicing caste politics because it was totally against his and the party's principles.