Indian-origin leader becomes first Sikh minister in Malaysia
Gobind Singh Deo, an Indian-origin Sikh politician in Malaysia, became a Cabinet Minister yesterday, the first member of the minority community in the country's history to be appointed as a minister. The 45-year-old got the Communications and Multimedia portfolio in Pakatan Harapan coalition's Cabinet. The other Indian-origin lawmaker M Kulasegaran from Democratic Action Party has been made the Human Resource Minister.
Deo represents Puchong constituency, wins with margin of 47,635 votes
Deo represents Puchong constituency in the Malaysian Parliament and is the son of late Malaysian lawyer and politician Karpal Singh. He was first elected as an MP in the 2008 general elections. Deo was re-elected to the lower house, with an increased margin, in 2013 and he again won this year's election with a margin of 47,635 votes. Nearly 1,00,000 Sikhs live in Malaysia.
Punjabi community hails the appointment of Deo
The Punjabi community hailed the appointment of Deo as the minister. "It's good to see Gobind Singh in the cabinet. It is a proud and happy occasion for our community. Other than being a recognition of his abilities, it is also a recognition for the long established Punjabi community in Malaysia," Miri Indian Association President, Councilor Karambir Singh said.
