Former MIC president Samy Vellu passes away

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 15 – Former Works Minister Tun S. Samy Vellu has passed away, former president of the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) Datuk Seri S.Subramaniam said in a post on his Facebook today.

He said the news of Samy Vellu’s death had been relayed to him by his son DS Velpari.

“It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I received the tragic news of the demise of Tun Samy Vellu the Former President of MIC and a legendary Minister in the Malaysian Cabinet.

“His contribution to the nation and to the Indian Community will be permanently etched in our memories. MIED, Aimst University, and Tafe College were his immortal contributions.”

Writer Bhavani Krishna Iyer says the passing away of Samy Vellu is a huge loss. She recalled the dynamism the MIC icon stood for as a minister during her reporting days.

“I do feel the loss as knowing him in person is the only way to appreciate his brilliance and his tender caring ways. As a reporter I have had many exclusive interviews with him and he would usually give me the last slot for the day and talk about many things, including his passions and concerns.

“He often inspired and motivated me with his sturdy view of things and had many anecdotes, some hilarious and yet others peppered with lessons for life.”

In a statement today, Samy Vellu’s former press secretary Dato E. Sivabalan said those who wished to pay their last respect can do so after 2pm today (Thursday, Sept 15) at the late MIC president’s residence at 19, Lengkongan Vethavanam, Batu 3 1/2, Jalan Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur.

The funeral cortege is expected to leave the residence at 3pm Friday and arrive at the DBKL crematorium in Jalan Kuari, Cheras, at 4pm.

Samy Vellu served as Works Minister from 1983 to 1989 and again from 1995 to 2008.

–WE