GEORGE TOWN – For decades those visiting then Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) president S.M. Mohamed Idris would find themselves first greeted by Uma Ramaswamy Iyer.
Uma, 65, is known as a pillar of strength among activists championing consumer rights.
She is also known to be the late Idris’ unofficial secretary – when he helmed CAP Sahabat Alam Malaysia – and would often be involved in sending statements to media organisations in Penang and Kuala Lumpur.
While Idris died in 2019, Uma succumbed to cancer yesterday after a lengthy battle with the disease.
She was also active behind the scenes where she used to chat up guests, motivating them about fighting for their causes, which they tend to share with Idris.
Her comrades, including CAP senior officer N.V. Subbarow and SAM president Meenakshi Raman, were among the hundreds who paid tribute to Uma, whose work in consumer advocacy and environmental rights will be remembered.
Her wake is at the Batu Gantong funeral parlour here before her funeral ceremony at the nearby crematorium later today. – The Vibes, August 21, 2022