TRADITION and language should be preserved, as they are the identity of a community, says Penang Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu.
Speaking at the Ponggal Thiruvizha (Ponggal celebration) for the Perai constituency at Dewan Serbaguna Chai Leng Park on Jan 19, Sundarajoo said: “Traditions and language, in particular, should be preserved to ensure they are passed down to future generations. These are the pillars that connect us to our roots and history which we should not forget.”
He highlighted the Tamil community’s rich legacy of wisdom and bravery, stressing the need to safeguard Tamil heritage through the preservation of language, religion, and traditions.
“To uphold Tamil heritage, we must first ensure the survival of the Tamil language. When the month of Thai (Tamil New Year) begins, opportunities arise, and when ‘Rajoo’ arrives, a way opens,” he added, symbolising hope and renewal.
As the Perai assemblyman, Sundarajoo shared his deep connection with the Indian community, praising their global presence and contributions.
“Indians have achieved prominence worldwide, showcasing remarkable skills and talent. Let us remain united and strive for even greater success as a community,” he said.
The Ponggal celebrations in Perai were organised with the support of the Persatuan Hindu Penang Development Corporation (PHPDC), marking the organisation’s first involvement in the event.
Meanwhile, Penang Development Corporation (PDC) chief executive officer Datuk Aziz Bakar noted that festivals like Ponggal play a vital role in fostering unity across communities.
“Such celebrations bring people together, regardless of race or religion, strengthening harmony,” he said.
The event featured a variety of traditional activities, including flower-tying, kolam drawing, and uriyadi (pot-breaking) competitions.
Attendees were also treated to captivating performances such as puliattam (tiger dance), mayilattam (peacock dance), karagattam (water pot dance), poikkaal kuthirai attam (dummy horse dance), and bharatanatyam.
Also present at the event were Sungai Pinang assemblyman Lim Siew Khim and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, who joined in celebrating the vibrant traditions of the Tamil community.
Random pictures of the vibrant celebration :-
Story & pix by Tanushalini Moroter