Malaysia (Commonwealth Union)_ The Indian diaspora in Malaysia, a complex yet often overlooked element of the nation’s multicultural landscape, represents a community with deep historical roots and present-day challenges. With approximately two million individuals of Indian origin residing in Malaysia, this group constitutes one of the largest Indian diaspora globally, surpassed only by the United States and the United Arab Emirates. Historically, the Indian connection to Malaysia dates back to AD 110, with early traces of Indian migration evident in the Bujang Valley. The 1700s marked a significant influx of Indian population in Malaysia, drawn primarily by the expanding tin and gold mining industries. However, it was during British colonial rule that Malaysia witnessed its largest and most consequential wave of Indian migration. The British Empire, leveraging its dominance over India, recruited numerous Indians as contract workers for the burgeoning rubber plantation estates in British Malaya.
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Today, the long-forgotten Malaysian Indian community is predominantly composed of descendants of these early migrants who arrived as workers and traders during the colonial era. Despite their extensive involvement in various professions, the Indian population in Malaysia continues to grapple with several socioeconomic challenges. Accordingly, the constitutional hurdles in Malaysia often work against the non-Bumiputra communities, exacerbating issues related to inequality, generational poverty, educational disparities, and social discrimination. As of 2022, Malaysian Indians make up approximately 6.6% of the nation’s population, making them the third largest diaspora group in Malaysia, following the Bumiputra and the Chinese. Despite their significant presence, many within the community still face systemic disadvantages. Accordingly, issues such as generational poverty, educational lag, racism, and restricted access to fundamental rights remain pervasive.
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The Indian diaspora is a global phenomenon, with around 30 million Indians residing worldwide. In Malaysia, the Indian community, which includes a substantial proportion of Hindus, is an integral part of the country’s demographic landscape. Recent events in Bangladesh, where reports of severe oppression against the Hindu minority have emerged, have further accentuated the plight of Malaysian Indians. These events have prompted Indian leaders in Malaysia to call for action from their own government. Notably, Tan Sri S.A. Vigneswaran, President of the Malaysian Indian Congress, and SP Punithan, President of the Malaysian Indian Peoples Party, along with Charles Santiago of the Democratic Action Party, have urged Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to address the issue of Hindu persecution on a global stage. Despite Ibrahim’s recent discussions with Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, which emphasized the protection of minority rights, there has been criticism that his statements did not adequately address the specific plight of Hindus.
In contrast, Wan Ahmad Fayhsal, a rising opposition leader and Member of Parliament, has taken a strong stance on social media against the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh. His remarks underscore a commitment to upholding the rights of non-Muslims living under Muslim-majority rule and challenge any misinterpretations of religious teachings that justify injustice. He took to X and posted, “We are duty bound by faith to observe the Quranic and Prophetic injunction that non-Muslims who live under Muslim majority rule must not be denied their basic rights and freedom of religion.” He added, “Don’t be misled by our whims and passion to inflict injustices toward non-Muslims in the name of Islam.”
As Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim prepares for a formal bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, there is a growing expectation among Malaysian Indians that their concerns will be voiced and addressed. This meeting presents a crucial opportunity to discuss and strengthen the economic and cultural ties between Malaysia and India, potentially leading to a more comprehensive economic blueprint that benefits the largest diaspora community. Additionally, the Indian diaspora in Malaysia, despite its significant size and historical contributions, continues to seek recognition and support. The Malaysian government and Indian leaders have a pivotal role in ensuring that the voices of this community are heard and their needs are met. Furthermore, addressing these issues not only benefits the Indian community but also enriches the multicultural fabric of Malaysia, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
