SEGAMAT: Differences in race, religion and language is not a barrier for Datuk Seri Dr S Subramaniam to mix with the community in Segamat parliamentary constituency which he has been representing for the last three terms.
His background as a medical doctor also enabled him to get close to the community and understand the problem faced by them, regardless of whether they were Malay, Chinese, Indian or other races.
His constant presence in the constituency and his concern for what is happening in the area makes him close to the people.
Batu Anam Youth Association chairman Mohd Aidil Othman said the people in Segamat, especially the youths, do not have any problem with the Barisan Nasional MP because he always gave attention to the youth in the constituency.
“Whenever we invited him to a programme, he will always attend without protocol and he always provides allocation for youths’ needs.
“Besides that, his relationship with the Malays in the constituency is very close because he considers the Malays as his relatives even though he is Indian. That is why we are have no problem communicating with him,” he said.
Aidil said during Dr Subramaniam’s tenure as the MP in the area, the community was very pleased with his performance as he brought rapid development and economic prosperity in the constituency.
Segamat Specialist Hospital Board of Visitors (Psychiatry) member Noor Salihin Cholan said the community was enjoying double benefit for having the Health Minister as the MP.
She said Dr Subramaniam’s initiatives and commitment towards healthcare was consolidated when the Segamat Hospital was upgraded to a specialist hospital.
“This initiative means that the people here does not have to travel far to get treatment from specialists. As the Health Minister and MP here, Dr Subramaniam has brought well-being to the people, especially in terms of healthcare and promoting healthy lifestyle,” said Noor Salihin.
She said Dr Subramaniam was very tolerant and encouraged every hospital including the Segamat Specialist Hospital to implement the ‘Hospital Mesra Ibadah’ programme which was seen as giving convenience for Muslim patients to perform their religious duties while they were being treated.
For Segamat District Village Heads Association chairman Baharom Ahmad, Dr Subramaniam’s attitude was well-liked by the villagers because of his openness in meeting with every level of the community regardless of their background.
“We have no problem with him because he always carries out his duties as an MP. The village community, especially the Malays, are comfortable with him because he is easy to talk to and to approach.
“He is always on the ground to meet with the people and if there any residents who are facing difficulties, he will help them to the best of his ability in order to ensure the people’s welfare is taken care of,” said Baharom.