NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak paid a glowing tribute to Malaysian Indians whom have always been at the "forefront" of nation building.
Addressing Indian captains of industry at the Malaysian-India Business Forum at the Taj Palace Hotel here, Najib said Malaysia's achievements and progress could not have been achieved without the contributions of Malaysian Indians.
"Malaysian Indians have played a key role in the building of our nation.
"They have always been at the forefront – within the government, our civil service, business, entertainment, education, and of course, food – which as you may know, is very important to Malaysians!"
Najib told the audience that Malaysian Indians were a crucial part of Malaysia's unique diversity.
"Their cultures and faiths help make up the rich and varied tapestry of our nation.
"I can truly say that without Indian Malaysians, Malaysia simply would not be what it is today.
"As such, they constitute a very special reason why it is so natural for our two countries to forge ever closer and friendlier relations."
Indian Malaysians make up 7.3 per cent of Malaysia's population, forming the largest population of Indians outside India.