ABSTRACT
This chapter provides the historical background of the Indian community in Malaysia. It examines the contributions of the Indian community to the nation and mentions some of its achievements despite the numerous problems and challenges faced by this ethnic minority. It argues that government policies of inclusive and equitable development targeting all needy Malaysians, including the B40 Indians in particular, are fundamental to the promotion of inter-racial harmony and national unity, which also includes adherence to constitutional safeguards for vernacular schools. This chapter includes selected initiatives taken by the government and civil society in the past two decades and assesses the extent to which they have helped to improve the socio-economic status of the community.
