KUALA LUMPUR – Barisan Nasional (BN) Secretary-General Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir has officially refuted claims that the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) is planning to exit the coalition, maintaining that the party remains a committed and integral component member.
Speaking to reporters following a BN Supreme Council meeting on Wednesday, Zambry emphasized that the coalition has received no official communication regarding a potential withdrawal. He reassured the public that the internal relationship between the top leadership of BN’s component parties remains strong and harmonious.
“I am confident that MIC stays with Barisan Nasional to this day. There have been no issues raised regarding this matter, and it was not even a topic of discussion during our meeting,” Zambry stated. He added that the coalition does not treat unverified reports or rumors as credible sources of information.
Addressing the absence of MIC representatives at the high-level meeting in Kota Kinabalu, Zambry clarified that it was due to unavoidable scheduling conflicts rather than political friction.
“BN always maintains a positive outlook. We continue to work together, and any rumors suggesting otherwise are regarded strictly as speculation,” he noted.
The meeting, chaired by BN Chairman and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, was also attended by leaders from other component parties, including PBRS President Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup and MCA Deputy President Datuk Dr. Mah Hang Soon.
Beyond the status of MIC, the Supreme Council reached several key organizational decisions, including:
- PPP Reinstatement: The formal readmission of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) into the Barisan Nasional coalition.
- Sabah BN Leadership: The appointment of Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup as the new Sabah BN Chairman.
- State Appointments: Datuk Seri Jafry Ariffin was named Sabah BN Deputy Chairman, while Datuk Mohd Hasnol Ayub took on the role of State BN Secretary.
The announcement aims to stabilize the coalition’s image amid shifting political narratives, reinforcing BN’s current lineup as they prepare for upcoming regional political challenges. (Kayla Shabirah)
