In a statement, the Malaysian Advancement Party (MAP) president called for all leaders to set their egos aside, adding that Sivakumar needed their backing to effectively meet the needs of the Indian community.

“Past Indian ministers like M Kula Segaran, Gobind Singh Deo, SA Vigneswaran, M Saravanan and myself could put our heads together to ensure the agenda for the Indian community is on the right track.

“Ego and personal differences should not come in between the needs of the larger Indian community,” he said.

Describing the current government as a “new norm in political developments and maturity”, he said it was in the nation’s interest for everyone to cooperate despite their differing political ideologies.

Waytha, a key mover of the Hindraf rally in 2007, also suggested that Sivakumar chair an open dialogue with leaders of all political parties to chart the Indian community’s future.

He said any proposal made following such talks could then be presented to the Cabinet for approval.

Yesterday, Sivakumar said the responsibility of looking after the well-being of all Malaysians, including the Indian community, was shared by all Cabinet members, not solely a minister of the same race.

The Batu Gajah MP said there were still many representatives from the community in the Dewan Rakyat who could help the government make balanced policies without marginalising any race.