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The earliest migrant Ceylon Tamil is still quite illusive to all the members of the community; who is he, where did he come from and when did he come... all this is quite a blur and many dates are thrown about of several known figures in the past history... one of them Singapore Vythalingham (1871). However the Singapore Ceylon Tamils Association is very sure of its own history and can boast of being one of the oldest associations in Singapore.
The dates are well chronicled hence the members gathered together to make it a day to remember... 31st July 2010...the 100th birthday of Singapore Ceylon Tamils Association. It was noted that the Association was formed in 1909 and finally registered on 26th July 1910. |
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Rains are a Blessing from the Heaven Above |
The thunder and rain threatened to washout the grand event on 31st July 2010. For days huge dark clouds hung low and threatened over Singapore. Often it would pour out of the skies and the relentless storms caused untold havoc around Singapore. But for some divine reason the Gods were kind and the morning of the function was bright and sunny. It enabled the workforce that was there to quickly work on the finishing touches for the function.
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The preparations for this event had been on for months ahead. Dr. R. Theyvendran the President of the Singapore Ceylon Tamils’ Association and Mr. E. Narasingham the Chairman of the Organising Committee left no stone unturned in their efforts to make this a happening event for all the members of the community. |
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The Nights Before |
There was frenzied activity on Thursday and Friday and by the evening many helpers and participants gathered to practice at the venue. What caught many of those that were there to see a preview of the program was the stupendous white marquee that suddenly rose over the cricket pitch of the Ceylon Sports Club almost overnight. This marked the beginning of the celebrations on 31st July 2010. The young performers were overwhelmed that the stage was really massive... something they did not expect as many thought it would be just a small event as usual. It was then that it sunk in deep that the big day was not going to be just a mundane affair and they were expected to perform their best. |
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The Sun Blazes... a sign of bright future ahead |
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Saturday 31st July 2010... what a bright sunny day it turned out to be after weeks of dreary weather. The Gods were kind to SCTA and Lord Senpaga Vinayagar showered his blessings for clear weather all around. Perhaps he knew this big party meant so much to all those that were there. As dusk drew near the marquee lights twinkled as the crowds gathered on the grounds. Many had not met their friends for a long time and many had lost touch; this was an ideal ground to renew friendships and make new ones too. There were fond memories exchanged as the chatter grew in crescendo louder and louder as the crowds grew. There were hugs and delightful chatter as relatives and friends zipped from corner to corner to greet each other. The music was underway and the party spirit within the marquee was set in motion; the guests were ready to rock. They were dressed in their best silks; the women had their hair done up in glorious hairstyles caught up in fragrant jasmines, roses and jewels. The perfume of the flowers mingled and rose into the air to give a heady sweet welcome to this wonderful night of fun and laughter. Standing at the entrance of the marquee one could observe the guests making their way down the steep steps hurriedly and descending onto the field. |
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Arrival of Special Guests |
There was Prof. K. Shanmugaratnam, so punctual and dressed in his dark suit... tripping slowly down the carpeted aisle to make his way to the entrance. He was immediately ushered to his seat. Next came Mr. J. Y. Pillay; he too was greeted and ushered in quickly. Soon it was time for the arrival of the special guests. Miss. Indranee Thurai Rajah Deputy Speaker of Parliament and MP for Tanjong Pagar GRC arrived first. She was received by Dr. Theyvendran, Mr. Narasingham, Mrs. Swaminathan and a few members of the committee. She was whipped away into the marquee. Following closely was Miss Irene Ng the MP for Tampines. She too looked fabulous in an orange sari she chose to don for the evening befitting the occasion.
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The Guest of Honour arrived and the party begun... |
The welcoming party hung around anxiously waiting for the Guest of Honour and there seemed to be no sign of his arrival. The area around Balestier Plain was very busy and the queues of cars waiting to disembark the passengers for the function formed a tailback. At long last the Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam and his wife arrived amidst the hectic bustle. The celebrations started with the Honourable Minister and his wife being garlanded and the Minister lighting the lamps as a tradition of the Association to give the signal for auspicious beginnings for such a big event; one thousand three hundred members and friends filled the marquee to be a witness to these special moments in the celebrations.
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The Formalities on Stage |
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The stage was magnificent. It carried as its backdrop a pair of canvas with the images from the cover of the book ‘Celebrating 100 Years’. The centre stage had a huge LED screen and on this was panned the same image from the book cover. The Minister was asked to launch the celebrations after lighting the oil lamps and with that he was invited back to his seat. Dr. Theyvendran gave his welcoming address as the 27th President of the Ceylon Tamils’ Association on this 100th Year of the Singapore Ceylon Tamils’ Association celebrations. It was an empowering and thought-provoking speech. |
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The guests tugged into their seats and relaxed as the show started off with a few dances. On the table were platters of palagarams (traditional sweetmeats) such as paitham paniayaram, chippi and murukku... so typical of Jaffna festive titbits.
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The entertainment began... |
As the documentary commenced telling the story of the Ceylon Tamils’ journey to this region and with it came beautiful dance items to enhance the production unfolding the tale as it went along. The guests were also served with a delectable dinner as they watched the show and were entertained. One could almost hear the oars cut into the ocean as the romantic Yehleloh... filled the air with nostalgia of days gone by as a woman cooed her tale of longing and yearning for her beloved. It was truly poignant. As the tale weaved on Lord Vinayagar was carried onto the stage and how real he looked. His Chandan covered face moved this way and that and for a moment it felt as if he had truly come to join as a reveller too. The dance troupe did a beautiful Malaari. The emotive songs and dances for Mother moved many and the mothers themselves were touched that they were remembered for the hardships that all of them went through to help the family reach the goals set for them. The show was pulsating with non-stop entertainment. |
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However the most memorable moment had arrived and that was the award ceremony. The Honourable Minister was invited on stage and he gave an impressive message to the guests and members of the community present. He was presented with the special commemorative historical book ‘Celebrating 100 Years’ that was published by the Association to mark the occasion. The book carried pages filled with history of the Ceylon Tamils journey here. Many articles of nostalgia and memories were featured for the association members that remembered the past history; the members present snapped up copies of the book quickly.
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Citations and Awards |
The Honourable Minister remained on stage to present the special awards given to seven men who served the community and nation during their lifetime. Dr. Theyvendran then read each of the citations. The first to receive the award was Prof. K. Shanmugaratnam a Histo-Pathologist. Many a tear filled eye was seen as a father received an award from his son. Mr. J.Y. Pillay and Dr. Arumugam Vijiaratnam were two men of true substance and they prided our community by making an indelible mark in their service to the nation. Wheelchair bound and yet determined to be there in person to receive this prestigious award was Mr. C. Thirchelvarayan a Chartered Surveyor... he was another of those men that had a hand in the growing years of Singapore. In Thiru as we all know him fondly we saw a true spirit of a Ceylon Tamil man... even under the most taxing challenging circumstances he would walk that extra mile and never give up; they had the spirit and fought with courage and determination to preserve their dignity and pride. Along came three more doctors... Dr. N. Kunaratnam an E&T Surgeon, Dr. S.T. Kasinathan an Orthopaedic Surgeon and Dr. S. Lavan Iswaran a Gynaecologist and Obstetrician. |
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The Honourable Minister and the special guests soon bid farewell and dispersed one by one. The party went on into the night... the Gods kept the rains away so that the function could go on smoothly. The revellers stayed on till the wee hours to rock the night away. The celebrations truly gave a huge new dimension to many who were present; it enlightened each and everyone present on the important contribution their forefathers dedicated; it was a reminder of the part their forefather played in the struggle to build this as peaceful multi-racial, multi-religious, multi-faceted nation Singapore... |
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The above 200 page book is a special commemorative limited edition that was launched by the Honourable Minister for Finance Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the celebrations on 31st July 2010. This book covers a brief synopsis on the Ceylon Tamil Pioneers of Singapore and Malaya. It gives an interesting peep into the culture, heritage, and traditions of the Ceylon Tamil a unique race of people; as the pages in history are turned, it evokes memories of the past. The book itself is done in an antiqued damask design so typical of the era of Victorian habits and style. The pages look like old manuscript paper that befits the book’s content. In the book one could expect to see old traditional recipes, an interesting article on how the Ceylon Tamils here in Singapore bought a plane called ‘Jaffna’ in 1914 for the World War I and sent it to fight the war between Britain and Germany and many more articles. The book has already received international acclaim and there is a big demand for a copy worldwide. It has been placed in libraries in many countries. As much as the book looks attractively packaged, its content is equally charming and valuable for the community as a keepsake for posterity and history. There are limited copies of the above book left for all those that are interested in obtaining a copy. Please do not miss buying a copy for your library at just $15 a copy.
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Singapore Ceylon Tamils’ Association Founded 1910
The Documentary DVD covers the memories of the 100 years of Ceylon Tamil Pioneers and these are memories regaled by some of our own members here in Singapore. It promises a colourful history and stories told by many members, friends and well-wishes of the Association. It is a must have documentary for every member of the community here in Singapore.
This documentary will be released very shortly. There will be an official launch to be announced shortly where the copies of the documentary will be sold at a very reasonable price. Please look out for this announcement so as not to miss the showing and the sale. Everyone should own a copy as a keepsake for generation ahead to know of their heritage. The DVD is being sold at $10 a copy. |
For Bookings please call
Mr. E. Narasinghan at 97539583 / Mr. Daya SSVT at. 6345 8176 /
Mr. Rama CSC at 6297 1009 |
Speech by Guest of Honour
Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Minister for Finance |
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good Evening |
Introduction
It is my privilege to be here this evening. This is a momentous occasion as we celebrate 100 years of the Singapore Ceylon Tamils Association (SCTA). The Association has not only contributed to the Ceylon Tamil community, but in doing so has helped the community add visibly to Singapore’s progress as a multi-cultural society. |
The SCTA has itself grown. It was formed by 300 Ceylon Tamils in 1909, and growing to over 1400 members today. |
Making the Most of Multiracialism
Ceylon Tamils in Singapore are a small community. They are a minority within a minority.
They have done well. In the judiciary and legal profession, in academic medicine and clinical practice, and in engineering, their contributions have been greatly disproportionate to the size of the community. There were also, historically, well represented in the senior levels of the civil service on both sides of the Causeway. My JY Pillay who is here this evening was the foremost example during his time in the Service in Singapore.
Equally important was their contribution to education, starting in colonial Malaya where they served as Principals and teachers in schools up and down the country, and continuing in the independence years. Educationists like Mr Sigamoney, former Principal of RI in Singapore.
Sporting life also saw many Ceylon Tamils excelling. It seemed to run in the blood. We are proud to have names like Dr A Vijiaratnam, who played for state in hockey, cricket, football and rugby.
Why have the Ceylon Tamils made a significant impact in Singapore? I think the most important reason has to do with the way they took advantage of an environment in post-independence Singapore that rewarded talent and effort regardless of race, and the way they have interacted freely with the other, larger communities. They have never had a minority complex, never looked inward to seek refuge.
The habit of interacting freely with other communities in fact went back many years. The Ceylon Sports Club for example, going back to the 1920s, was an example of how Ceylonese of all races got along as friends and fellow sportsmen. Tamils, Sinhalese and Burghers. They also opened their doors to non-Ceylonese, including many from the majority community in Singapore, and expats from all over the place. The Club knew of only one form of discrimination. It was not a comfortable place to be if you didn’t appreciate cricket, or at least feign an appreciation in the sport.
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So the Ceylon Tamils were well-disposed to the multiacialism that defined Singapore after independence. It is probably no accident that S Rajaratnam, coming from this minority community, drafted the Singapore Pledge - with its call for a single, united people regardless of race, language or religion.
This habit of integrating with other races and thinking of ourselves as Singaporean first, is the only way each of our communities can progress in Singapore. We can afford neither majority or minority complexes. |
The multiracial instinct that has always been there in the Ceylon Tamil community must continue to define its role in the years to come Singapore - in work and business, in culture and in every field of civil life. It is how we will keep contributing to Singapore.
It is difficult to say if our future generations will see themselves as a distinct community of Ceylon Tamils. Not a few are marrying with the broader Indian community, or with other races. That too is part and parcel of their growing up in Singapore. But we must hope they will take pride in their Ceylonese roots, and never forget the way their forefathers made their way to this part of the world, and made the most of opportunities despite being in a minority. We must hope they understand deep in their hearts that their only future is to champion multiracialism.
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Role of SCTA
The SCTA has provided a platform to nurture the cultural heritage among the Ceylon Tamils while actively promoting its integration in our multi-cultural society. It helps keep alive the Tamil language and culture through the present SCTA Sunday School and its various activities.
SCTA must continue to innovate and stay relevant to a changing Singapore. For instance, by helping to integrate new immigrants into Singapore society.
To the younger members, I urge you to heed Dr. Theyvendran’s earlier call to serve and continue the good work of the Association as well as to preserve the rich heritage of the Ceylon Tamils.
On this note, I wish SCTA many more fruitful years to come and a happy 100th year.
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“Our Guest of Honour, the Honourable Finance Minister, Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Our Special Guest, Deputy Speaker and MP, Ms. Indranee Rajah And our other Special Guest, Ms. Irene Ng, Author and Member of Parliament for Tampines GRC, our many friends from Federation of Malaysian Sri Lankan Organization (FOMSO) and the Malaysian Ceylonese Congress…..
….SCTA’s journey was not simple and straight forward. There were many hurdles to be crossed and crises handled.
For the present, however SCTA must remain and thrive and be an integral part of the Singapore Society. A social thinker once said, “a candle loses nothing by being lighted and brightened up by another candle.” In fact, by being part of the larger society the brightness sparkle both candles.
SCTA is a well-knit organization today with necessary financial strength, core competence and extensive social networks. For that, we salute our forefathers and are grateful for all that they have done. They gave us enduring values that have stood the test of time. They taught us the real meaning of ‘community success’ and ‘community greatness.’
SCTA needs young bright people to provide continuity of leadership for the Ceylonese community in Singapore. It also needs financial support to carry on its aims and objects.
There is a German proverb which says” “One does evil enough when one does nothing good” which means just avoiding evil is not enough one must also do good. This is further fortified by Napoleon, who said:-
“The world suffers a lot. Not because of the violence of bad people, but because of the silence of good people.”
In community and social work the rewards are not immediate. They are often delayed but the rewards are there in terms of inward satisfaction of having done good for the community and seeing that the community stands shoulder high with other communities in Singapore.
Our Nation, with its healthy diversity of cultures and creeds has a place for each and everyone of us. I call on our young and old to get involved and participate in the SCTA activities. Remember, ‘true love’ can sometimes be tough and controversial. To just walk away is easy, especially if you already have accumulated wealth and a good education. Many countries will warmly welcome you.
Once again, on behalf of the community, I extend our thanks and appreciation to our distinguished guests, Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Ms. Indranee Rajah and Ms. Irene Ng for gracing this evening’s auspicious occasion.
My special thanks to the Organising Committee of this evening’s function, especially Mr E. Narasinghan, its Chairman. I am grateful to the many volunteers who have given so much of their time and effort. Their only reward is to make this event a success.
May I say how happy we are to have with us our many numerous friends and supporters from abroad especially our good friends from Malaysia.
Last but not least to all those present tonight and those who could not be here for various reasons, let me say without your continued dedication to the aims of SCTA no Management Committee, however, sincere, however dedicated can be effective.
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There was a flurry of excitement after the awards and all seemed to be in a rush. The Minister, MPs and the entourage of special guests were swept off to the beautiful exhibition set up at the CSC patios by Susheeta Manoharan.
That was the moment picked by the compere to call Dr. Theyvendran and surprise him with an award. This award was planned by Mr. Sivakolunthu and Mr. E. Narasingham for a few months. However they kept it as an airtight secret and surprised Dr. Theyvendran.
His great contributions and for being a great leader, Dr. Theyvendran deserved this special moment of appreciation from the people of the community. He was truly staggered and for a moment and one noted a little confusion written on his face. However he rushed onto the stage and heard the citation through.
His face showed humility and emotion as he heard Mr. Sivakolunthu one of his greatest critics giving him showers of tribute instead. He was bowled over by the gesture and never really expected it. The award was given to him by the oldest man of the Ceylon Tamil community Mr. N. Rameswaram. The elder had come there to the function from the hospital where he had a stent put in.
The stunned Dr. Theyvendran was moved to tears and one observed his cracking voice as he thanked all for this special recognition by the community, friends and society. Many present felt that he truly deserved this special award and recognition for the hard work and commitment he put into the organisation leading at the helm for the last twelve years. And time will tell as he will possibly be the longest serving President in the SCTA.
It was truly stirring to receive this recognition at the first century celebrations of the organisation. |
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Like his father, he is a benevolent member of the Ceylon Tamil community and the Singapore community as a whole.
He is known for his good management skills and his ability to muscle in a crowd of Ceylonese to work together, a trait that he has perhaps inherited from his father Mr. N. Eliyathamby. In the past he has shown his skills in activating and managing the Music and Dance Academy, one of the successful ‘Seven Pillars’ of the Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple and many other programs for the Temple.
Working together with an able President Dr. R. Theyvendran at the helm, Mr. E. Narasinghan has brought about stronger ties between Malaysia and Singapore and the “100 Years Celebrations” of the SCTA was an example to showcase his driving force. Driven by Mr. E. Narasinghan, the function was attended by more than 1300 guests and one is proud to note that more than 95% who attended were Ceylon Tamils. It was truly a great effort by him.
Nara, as he is fondly known by all, has worked at establishing fellowship and ties with kinsmen from across the Causeway. In 2007, he contacted the MCC and since then there has been reciprocal attendance and cultural exchanges at Tamil New Year, National Day and other special functions. The Malaysians supported the function by buying at least 6 tables.
Hence it was not a surprise for many that the 2nd Vice-President of SCTA and Organising Chairman of SCTA’s 100 Year Celebrations, Mr Eliyathamby Narasinghan was called on stage at the centenary celebrations to receive an award from Miss. A. Navamany, a representative of the Malaysian Ceylonese Congress Johore Baru (MCC). However, Nara was taken by surprise that evening as least did he expect such an award.
The MCC presented the award in recognition of his efforts in establishing and maintaining close ties between MCC and SCTA. |
