KLANG: One of the nation’s foremost educationists, Tan Sri Dr M. Thambirajah, passed away in his sleep early on Monday morning (June 23).
The founder of the Sri Murugan Centre (SMC) was 84.
Dr Thambirajah, a history professor at Universiti Malaya, began his mission to encourage the Malaysian Indian community through education in 1982 after observing the lack of Indian students in public universities.
With the help of 42 Indian undergraduates from the university, he set his idea of providing tuition and mentoring classes for young Indians in motion.
The undergraduates took to the idea and established the SMC the same year. The name was taken from Lord Murugan, who represents the Tamil language, culture and people
At the centre, education was regarded as a pilgrimage, similar to the Kalvi Yathirai (educational pilgrimage) held annually at the Batu Caves Murugan temple.
Students were also encouraged to dress to the highest standards when attending classes. The boys were required to wear ties, as Dr Thambirajah believed that for students to excel, their confidence must be boosted first.
Parents were also included, and students took part in ceremonies organised by the SMC to honour them.
Since opening, approximately 300,000 students have passed through SMC.
Dr Thambirajah began his career as a Kirby-trained teacher and then pursued tertiary education, majoring in Russian History at Washington University in the United States.
He then pursued a law degree, was admitted to the Malaysian Bar and opened his own legal firm after retiring as a university academic.
Dr Thambirajah leaves behind his wife, Puan Sri A. Indrani, two children—Dr Sumitra and Anand, and two grandchildren.
Those wishing to pay their last respects may do so at SMC Ashram, No. 40, Jalan Bukit 11/2, Petaling Jaya, from 10.00am to 2.00pm on Tuesday, June 24.
Dr Thambirajah’s final rites will be conducted at the Shah Alam Nirwana Memorial Park at 3.00pm on the same day.
