Klang (Malaysia), Apr. 27 : Malay Indians are generally unaware of economic opportunities made available to them by the government, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister''s Department T. Murugiah has claimed.

He said many did not know they could take loans from the government to start their own businesses or get involved in the agriculture sector.

"Because there is little exposure, the Indian community do not know what has been made available by the government," the New Strait Times quoted him as saying after launching a Small Businesses and Agro-Farming Seminar here on Sunday.

The one-day seminar, attended by some 2,000 participants, was aimed at creating more awareness about business opportunities for the community.

Murugiah, who is in charge of Indian Affairs in the Prime Minister''s Department, said the idea for the seminar came about after Indians took part in street rallies after claiming that the government had sidelined them in terms of assistance and financial support.

He said Indians should not criticize the government and approach unrelated parties without first approaching ministries to find out what was available for them. (ANI)