(a) whether the human rights and religious freedom of People of Indian origin, particularly
those belonging to specific community, are being violated in Malaysia;
(b) if so, the details of the information available with the Government in this regard; and
(c) the action taken or proposed to be taken by the Government thereon?
MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS(SHRI S.M. KRISHNA)
(a) to (c) There are about 1.9 million Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) in Malaysia, who
account for about 8% of Malaysia’s population. Most of them are now citizens of Malaysia
and well integrated into their system. They are active in various walks of Malaysian society.
Their rights as citizens of Malaysia are derived from the Malaysian constitution.
The Government of India remains deeply conscious of the welfare of People of Indian Origin
living abroad. We have friendly relations with Malaysia and we remain in touch with the
Malaysian authorities whenever there is some concern on the interests of the PIOs living
in Malaysia.
During the State visit to India in January 2010, H.E. Dato’ Sri Mohd. Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul
Razak, Hon’ble Prime Minister of Malaysia has said to Indian leaders, including External
Affairs Minister, Leader of Opposition and Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu that Malaysian
Government will continue to respect the rights of People of Indian-origin and improve their
well-being.