I would like to thank the president Datuk Seri S Samy vellu and MIC delegates for their support and confidence they have in me. The recently concluded party elections was closely contested and was a crucial one for the MIC. Now that the elections are over I am sure that all members will put aside their differences and come together to unite and strive for a better future. I am certain they will continue to support me.

Many questions and pressures have been exerted on the transition of power in MIC. I have been working closely together with Datuk Seri S Samy Vellu for many years now. He has been preparing me for the top post for many years. In fact during several campaign meetings he declared that I have experience, maturity and the capability to take over from him and lead the party.

Datuk Seri Samy Vellu has been an iconic leader in Malaysian history who has led the Indians through some trying times. A lesser man would have perished long ago. I am certain he must have a good plan in his mind, especially after having supported me as the deputy president candidate for the second time in the September 12 elections. He will know when it will be the best moment to hand over the reins.

Meanwhile the MIC has a lot of work to do and we will not waste time but move forward. The new leadership is made up of many new faces and the delegates have voted smartly by bringing in change where they saw fit. It is a good mix of experience and young blood. With this new mandate, MIC will continue to be an effective partner in the Barisan Nasional.