Sunday, October 24, 2010

Indian PM proud of Indians in Malaysia

By Ravichandran D. J. Paul

KUALA LUMPUR, Saturday 23 October 2010 (Bernama) -- Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, scheduled to make a two-day visit to Malaysia beginning Tuesday, is set to witness a progressive Indian diaspora in the country.

During the visit, he will witness the recognition accorded to Malaysians of Indian origin when he launches `Little India' in Brickfields, with his Malaysian counterpart, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

Malaysia National Sikhs Movement (GerakSikh) president Tan Sri G. Darshan Singh, who last year handed over to Manmohan in New Delhi, his book entitled 'Sikh Community of Malaysia', said the Indian prime minister was impressed with Malaysia and the Indians there.

He told Bernama in an interview that Manmohan took great interest to find out about Sikhs and other Indians in Malaysia, was pleased with Malaysia's achievements and the Sikh community's contribution to the country.

The Sikhs welcomed Manmohan's visit as it was timely and meaningful, he said, adding that it would help cement the bond between the two countries.

"The Sikhs here are proud that a member of their community is leading the world's biggest democracy," said Darshan, referring to Manmohan whom the TIME magazine listed as among the world's 100 most influential people in 2010.

On the honour given to the Indian prime minister to launch `Little India' with Najib, Darshan said it acknowledged the contribution of the people from the Indian sub-continent who made Malaysia their home.

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