PENANG’s vibrant cultural heritage continues to attract global attention as it plays host to the 11th Annual Global Organisation of Tamil Origin (GOTO) Meet today and tomorrow (Jan 5).
For the first time, the prestigious GOTO event is being held outside India, with Penang chosen as the gathering point for delegates from Tamil Nadu and Tamil diaspora communities worldwide.
Witnessing the remarkable event in Penang, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow underscored the significance of the event as it strengthens the long-standing bonds between Tamil Nadu and Penang.
“GOTO plays a pivotal role in fostering meaningful dialogue among Tamils globally. It is a privately-led initiative that bridges distances, whether geographical or ideological,” Chow said.
He commended Penang’s vibrant Tamil community, along with other Indian ethnic groups, for its rich cultural heritage, which has shaped the state in commerce, agriculture, medicine, and education.
“We remain committed to working with Tamil and Indian community stakeholders to nurture Tamil language, culture, education, and identity.
“Last year, the state allocated RM2.39 million to Tamil schools, Tamil preschools, Punjabi schools, and the Tamil School Committee Special Account. This demonstrates our dedication to enhancing education within these communities,” Chow added.
“Led by state Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, this funding shows our commitment to enhancing education in the Tamil and Indian communities,” he said.
He also paid tribute to the sacrifices made by the community’s forefathers, recognising their invaluable contributions to Penang’s development.
Chow also promoted Penang as being one of the investment hubs in the region that attracts numerous keen interests from abroad.
Promoting Penang as a regional investment hub, Chow highlighted the state’s commitment to collaborating with Tamil Nadu and other Indian states to advance the semiconductor industry and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
Chow applauded the direct flight service between Penang and Chennai, describing it as a step towards strengthening bonds between the two cities.
Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, who oversees the portfolio of Human Capital, Development, Science and Technology, expressed his hope for deeper collaboration with Tamil Nadu to develop human capital.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai welcomed the delegates, noting their presence would boost the tourism industry.
“The launch of the IndiGo flight between Chennai and Penang offers new opportunities for both business and leisure tourism,” he said.
State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, who represented Penang at the 10th GOTO in Chennai, noted this year’s event has drawn thousands of participants. They include various Tamil communities from Johor and Kedah.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
