A COMMUNITY’S identity is its language and culture, which need to be preserved to safeguard the community itself, says state Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu.
Sundarajoo, who is also the Tamil Schools Special Committee chairman, shared this during the ‘Yazlin Maunamozhi’ book launch held at SJK(T) Ramathasar (formerly known as SJK(T) River Road) on March 22.
“Tamil schools in Penang continue to operate smoothly, and they must continue to do so for many years to come.
“In comparison to 15 years ago, the Tamil schools in Penang are in better condition in terms of infrastructure.
“And in another five to 10 years, they will be even better.
“Most of the Tamil schools are now equipped with smart boards.
“To ensure that the passion for the Tamil language continues to grow within our Tamil community, Tamil schools must continue to thrive,” he said while reaffirming the state government’s commitment to enhancing the schools’ infrastructure.
Sundarajoo also added that everyone in the community is accountable for preserving the Tamil language.
The event was jointly organised by the Penang Tamil Writer Association and Malaysian Venerable Swami Ramadasan Mandram.
Meanwhile, Sundarajoo also expressed his admiration for writers and poets on how even a few words can inspire someone greatly.
At the book launch, three representatives, each representing Tamil schools from the states of Penang, Kedah, and Perlis, were presented with copies of the ‘Yazlin Maunamozhi’ book.
Two copies will be given to each school.
S. Thinagaran, a teacher from SJK(T) Ramathasar,represented all 28 Tamil schools in Penang. Former headmaster K. Punnaivan represented 51 Tamil schools in Kedah, and K. Loganathan, a representative from a non-governmental organisation (NGO), represented one Tamil school in Perlis.
The ‘Yazlin Maunamozhi’ book was written by Sima Ilangko.
Also present were Penang Tamil Writers Association deputy chairman Kovathan, committee member Solai Murugan,Malaysian Venerable Swami Ramadasan Mandram chairman K Narayanan,Malaysian Tamil Writers Association chairman Mohana Perumal.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter