THE book “Paakumara Teevil Tekumara Talaivan – In The Island Of Betel Nut Trees, There Is A Teak Tree Leader” depicts the political biography of Prof Dr P. Ramasamy, the first Malaysian of Indian origin to be appointed as a Deputy Chief Minister of Penang.
The book was written by an active DAP member, who is also a journalist with Makkal Osai Tamil daily Se.Gunalan after conducting interviews and examining materials on Dr Ramasamy’s social and political contributions.
Gunalan has also served as a Seberang Perai Municipal Councillor from 2012 to 2013.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow who was present to launch the book, touched on some of Dr Ramasamy’s role and involvement towards the society and community.
He has served as an adviser to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in the setting up of educational programmes for senior trade unionists, played an active role in the Aceh peace process that eventually led to a peace agreement between the Government of Indonesia and Free Acheh Movement (GAM). After winning the Batu Kawan parliamentary seat and the Perai state seat in 2008 he was selected as the Deputy Chief Minister (II) of Penang.
“I became much more familiar with him when we were involved in numerous committees and took part in the various decision-making stages concerning the state government.
“Dr Ramasamy is always committed to social justice and has deep concern towards socio-economic issues that affect the Indian community. He is passionate about matters such as education, employment and cultural rights,” Chow said in his speech at The Light Hotel on Feb 16.
The book will inspire the younger generation to come forward and serve Malaysians selflessly.
It took three years to complete the 150-page book.
Joining them were Dr Ramasamy’s wife K. Kalaiarasi, Malaysian Association Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Datuk N.Gobalakrishnan, Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam founder and secretary-general G.Vaiyapuri, Social Welfare Association Malaysia (SWAM) president Dr Habeeb Rahman, Bagan Dalam assemblyman M. Satees, The Light Hotel owner Tan Sri D. Ramesh and MPSP and Penang Island City Council councillors.
Story by K.Thaarshenii
Pix by Chan Kok Kuan