GEORGE TOWN – After running heritage and cultural programmes from a rented lot for nearly 50 years, Penang Mukkulathor Sangam has a permanent home in Kedah Road with the help of the state government.
Originally, the state government allocated RM20,000 to help set up the shophouse while the Penang Development Corporation extended a discount to enable the association to own the place.
Today, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced another RM20,000 allocation to be used for renovation.
Malaysia Mukkulathor Council president Kannu Sivakumar said the Penang association has been dreaming of having a place to call its own after using homes of committee members and the rented lot in King Street for almost half a century.
With the new space, they will be able to organise more functions that serve to educate the next generation on customs and traditions.
Set up in Penang, in 1973, the Mukkulathor Sangam is an amalgamation of three clans (Kallar, Maravar and Agamudiyavar) in Malaysia.
It has 12 branches in Malaysia since, intending to foster unity and encourage educational advancement in terms of language, heritage and culture.
Meanwhile, Chow attributed the success of the Penang government to the thousands of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the state and promises to continue supporting them.
Speaking at the launch of Penang Mukkulathor Sangam’s new premises, he said the government’s strength does not come from its machinery alone but with the involvement of NGOs.
“NGOs are talking about issues of economy, culture, language, health, transport, mobility and more. They act as strong support for the government to function better.
“It is satisfying to note that in Penang, there are many NGOs from many ethnic groups who are playing their part in helping the poor and deserving to overcome their plight. This can be seen during the Covid-19 pandemic situation when our lives and livelihoods were threatened.”
“Through associations like this, we can instil a sense of belonging to the younger generation. Promoting our culture and identity are rights given to us as Malaysian citizens.” – The Vibes, December 5, 2021
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