Tan (in pink) flanked by Dr Parameshwaran (right) and Mala, with Lathachini (left) during the event in Tanjung Bungah, Penang. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
UNITY, heritage and community spirit was on full display as the Malaysian Ceylonese Congress (MCC) hosted its Biannual Fellowship Dinner in Tanjung Bungah, Penang.
The evening, which brought together community leaders and members at a hotel, underscored the Ceylonese community’s role in promoting harmony and cultural pride within Penang’s multicultural society.
Among the distinguished guests were Tan Lean Kee, wife of Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, and state Muhibbah Council chairman Tan Sri Dr Yusoff Latiff, who was accompanied by his wife Puan Sri Suziwati Baidawi.
They were welcomed by MCC Penang branch chairman Datuk Dr K. Parameshwaran and his wife Datin P. Mala, along with organising chairman Lathachini Sivanisam.
Also present were MCC secretary-general Amaravathi Navaratnam, treasurer Vijaya Raj Vijaya Singham and Malaysian Sri Lankan Organisations executive committee member Magandran Muthiah.
In her address, Tan praised MCC Penang for its active contributions to the state Muhibbah Council and highlighted the organisation’s steady growth, noting that membership had increased from 60 members at its inception to 124 today.
“MCC Penang has evolved into more than just a platform for the Ceylonese community to celebrate its traditions.
“It now plays an important role in fostering intercultural understanding and goodwill across Penang’s diverse communities.”
She also commended the branch for organising its annual Womens Day and Mothers Day celebrations, which recognise the contributions of women and the vital role of mothers.
“MCC Penang’s charitable activities and community initiatives reflects a strong sense of compassion and social responsibility that extended beyond the Ceylonese community.
“I hope that it will continue empowering its youth to carry forward the community’s legacy in education and public service while preserving its heritage.
“This fellowship dinner symbolises both a celebration of the Ceylonese community’s past contributions and its continued role in shaping Penang as a model of unity and cultural harmony.”
Yusoff said the Penang Ceylonese Congress has been a member of the state Muhibbah Council since its establishment in Nov 2003, with the mission of fostering unity among Penang’s multiracial communities.
“The council consistently upholds the values of tolerance and mutual respect.
“Our first prime minister, the late Tunku Abdul Rahman always emphasised respecting our diverse beliefs and cultures is the foundation of the nation’s prosperity.”
Earlier, Dr Parameshwaran reaffirmed MCC’s commitment to the Muhibbah Council’s mission, noting that under Yusoff’s leadership, minority groups had been given due recognition and the opportunities for development.
Dr Parameshwaran reminded members of their responsibility to keep the legacy of their forefathers alive and pass it on to the next generation.
Amaravathi, speaking on behalf of MCC president T. Mahendranathan, praised MCC Penang for its consistent efforts in organising meaningful programmes and serving the community.
She said MCC headquarters was currently upgrading its digital services including the development of its own online portal.
“All branches will progressively go digital, particularly for member recruitment and the dissemination of information.”
Magandran later shared insights from a recent visit to Sri Lanka, screening a video highlighting the damage and hardships faced by communities affected by severe flooding.
Despite the sombre moment, the evening concluded on a high note, with guests enjoying a mix of cultural performances and contemporary songs as well as lucky draw prizes.
