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The Star
8 hours ago
- General
- The Star
Decades of faith and hard work transform Sibu's Hindu temple.
A ONCE modest house of worship has now blossomed into a grand cultural and spiritual landmark for the Hindu community in Sibu. The newly completed Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, built at a cost of RM2mil, stands not just as a place of prayer but as a powerful symbol of unity, heritage and hope for generations to come. The temple's origins date back to 1920, when it began as a humble hut. In 1971, it moved into a double-storey building donated by the late Soma Sundram. That house and its surrounding land were generously gifted for religious use – a gesture that laid the foundation for the temple's enduring legacy. Manogaran (fifth from left) leading a mini-procession around the temple. Today, after more than a decade of tireless work, community support and government funding, the temple has undergone a complete transformation. Temple president Manogaran Krishnasamy, who took over its management in 2012, described the journey as both challenging and deeply rewarding. 'This temple is built on new ground, literally and spiritually. It is the first Hindu temple in Sibu constructed under the Integrated Development Plan (IDP) for the Indian community,' said Manogaran, a retired police sergeant. 'It follows traditional Hindu customs, from the statues to the prayers – it mirrors what you would see in Peninsular Malaysia or even India.' The transformation didn't happen overnight. A large crowd of devotees at the consecration of the temple. 'It took years of fundraising, administrative work and sheer determination. Between 2018 and 2024, major construction and decorative work was completed with support from the Sarawak government and the Unit for Other Religions (Unifor), which contributed nearly RM400,000. Further help came from local philanthropists and timber businessmen who donated wooden materials valued at over RM120,000. 'Without the support of our elected representatives and the local Chinese and Iban communities, this temple would not exist in its current form,' Manogaran said. 'I am especially grateful to Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg and Nangka assemblyman Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee for their belief in our vision.' The temple consecration ceremony is steeped in tradition. Initially, 10 skilled workers from India were involved in the project but as it neared completion, only four remained. 'Each worker earns a salary ranging from RM3,000 to RM4,000. 'Yes, they are skilled workers, which is why they all have certificates,' Manogaran explained. He said 16 stone sculptures were brought in from India at a cost of nearly RM22,000 for transport, while 63 statues were built on site by the specialist workers. The temple was consecrated on July 7 in a ceremony that featured 48 days of prayers and the participation of over 30 priests from India and Peninsular Malaysia. Looking ahead, the temple committee has set its sights on an even more ambitious goal: to hold Sibu's first-ever Thaipusam celebration next year. 'In Penang, Thaipusam draws people from all over the world. It's more than a religious event – it becomes a multicultural gathering,' said Manogaran. Musical instruments formed an integral part of the consecration ceremony. 'We hope to replicate that spirit here in Sibu. Our vision is to make it a memorable and inclusive festival that also draws tourists.' Plans are already under way for a local religious procession, with hopes that it could evolve into an annual cultural highlight for Sibu. While traditional chariots pulled by bulls – as seen in Peninsular Malaysia – are impractical in Sibu, the committee is exploring creative alternatives such as airport trolleys to symbolically carry the deity during the parade. In addition to Thaipusam, the temple plans to celebrate other major Hindu festivals like Navaratri, ensuring year-round spiritual activity. The temple is open daily from 7am to 10am and 6pm to 10pm, with a full-time priest from Peninsular Malaysia stationed there to conduct daily rituals. A boy being lifted up by his parents to witness the divine blessings of Goddess Mariamman at the temple. In time, there are plans to open the temple to members of the public with fixed visiting hours. Beyond its religious role, the temple also aspires to serve the wider community. Manogaran hopes to raise funds for a temple van, which could be used to transport devotees or assist in charitable work such as ferrying the sick to hospitals. Still, challenges remain as further work is needed to improve the temple's uneven grounds – but Manogaran remains optimistic. 'Many people have served this community for decades but couldn't achieve this. I've been here just seven or eight years and one day decided: it's time we had a proper temple. With faith and unity, everything is possible.' The Sri Maha Mariamman Temple today is not only a place of worship, it is a living monument to interfaith cooperation, community resilience and cultural preservation. As it prepares to host its first Thaipusam festival next year, Sibu's Hindu community, numbering between 300 and 400 people, has every reason to be proud.
Yahoo
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
How Darkkey Nagaraja's Sambarock defied odds and inspired a generation, now immortalised in upcoming film ‘Aku Darkkey'
KUALA LUMPUR, June 24 — For decades, the name Darkkey Nagaraja has resonated with Malaysian Tamil music fans, synonymous with a genre he pioneered: Sambarock. Born out of an audacious blend of traditional Tamil rhythms with rock and funk, Sambarock wasn't just a musical innovation—it was a movement. It challenged conventions, united communities, and redefined what local Tamil music could be. But for filmmaker Vicram Lachumanam, Darkkey's story is much more than a tale of musical success—it's a testament to resilience, creativity, and cultural pride, and this is why he wants it to be heard internationally. 'We should not wait till our local talent is celebrated elsewhere; it's time for us to chest thump and say this is from us and this is a story to be told.' Vicram's connection to Darkkey began in his childhood, when he would help the musician sell cassettes during Thaipusam festivals, captivated by the man's relentless drive and unique sound. Today, Vicram channels that admiration into 'Aku Darkkey' ('I Am Darkkey'), the first-ever Malaysian Tamil documentary to chronicle the rise of an independent artist who broke barriers in the 1990s. 'For me, this isn't just a documentary—it's a deeply personal tribute,' Vicram shared. 'Darkkey's story represents the courage to defy norms, the grit to endure setbacks, and the triumph of staying true to one's art. It's a story that deserves to inspire generations.' The Birth of Sambarock Darkkey's greatest legacy lies in his creation of Sambarock, a genre that fused traditional Tamil music with rock and funk influences. At a time when international acts overshadowed Malaysian Tamil music, Darkkey's bold experiment was met with skepticism. Yet, through relentless dedication, he turned this unique sound into a movement, earning him the title 'King of Sambarock.' His band, The Keys, became household names, performing electrifying roadshows and concerts that brought communities together. It was this daring innovation that laid the foundation for a new era in Malaysian Tamil music, inspiring other independent artists and even gaining traction in India's competitive entertainment landscape. Albums like 'Akkamage,' which sold over 700,000 cassette copies, proved that a homegrown sound could resonate across borders. Hits such as 'Maravana' and 'Karatana' further solidified his legacy, with Sambarock becoming a cultural touchstone for Malaysian Tamil identity. Darkkey's global influence was further cemented recently with the inclusion of his track 'Puli Puli' in the Tamil action film 'Good Bad Ugly,' starring Ajith Kumar. Directed by Adhik Ravichandran, the film has received widespread attention for its high-octane action sequences and electrifying soundtrack. The song has captivated audiences in both Malaysia and India, marking the first time a Malaysian Tamil-language track has been prominently featured alongside one of India's biggest film stars. Behind the scenes: Director Vicram (left) and Darkkey (seated) during the shoot for the upcoming film in April 2026. — Picture by Kirran Prashaanth Celebrating a legacy The documentary delves deep into Darkkey's rise during an era where success was measured in cassette sales rather than streaming numbers or social media followers. It paints a vivid picture of an artist who relied on sheer grit and innovation to succeed in an industry dominated by imported sounds. Produced by Poketplay Sdn Bhd, led by Veerasegar Thyagarajan and S. Thiruvarasu, the project is a labour of love, driven by a shared vision to elevate local talent onto a global platform. With plans for theatrical and OTT releases in both Malaysia and India, 'Aku Darkkey' is not just a tribute to a musical icon but a celebration of cultural identity and perseverance. The creative team Adding to its impact is a star-studded creative team. Indian sound designer G. Suren, celebrated for his contributions to films like 'Jailer,' 'Karnan,' and the recent 'Retro,' lends his expertise to craft the film's audio experience. Meanwhile, Malaysian rapper Roshan Jamrock collaborates with Ashwath, a music producer acclaimed for his work on films like 'FIR' and 'Inspector Rishi.' Together, Roshan and Ashwath aim to channel the electrifying essence of Sambarock, introducing it to a new generation of listeners. Adding a visual edge to the project is Mango Post, an industry leader known for its cutting-edge work in VFX and DI (Digital Intermediate), ensuring the documentary is as visually striking as its subject matter. Behind the scenes: Ongoing shoot in Darkkey's hometown of Kuala Lipis, Pahang. — Picture by Kishyen Rao Publicity designer Tuney John, celebrated in the Indian film industry (Kollywood) for crafting iconic posters and promotional materials, including for the blockbuster 'Pushpa: The Rise – Part 1,' and 'Pushpa 2: The Rule' brings his creative vision to 'Aku Darkkey,' promising a bold and compelling visual identity. A video glimpse of the documentary was released on June 18 by renowned Indian composer G.V. Prakash, creating excitement among fans and industry insiders alike. The glimpse offered a tantalizing preview of the passion and energy behind 'Aku Darkkey,' sparking anticipation for the full release expected in April next year. 'Darkkey's story is not just his own; it's Malaysia's story,' said Veerasegar. 'It's about daring to dream, embracing our roots, and proving that our local talent deserves to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with international icons.' With 'Aku Darkkey,' Darkkey Nagaraja's legacy is set to reach new heights, ensuring his pioneering spirit continues to inspire for generations to come.
New Indian Express
09-06-2025
- New Indian Express
32 devotees on padayatra to Palani killed on Dindigul roads since 2020
MADURAI: A total of 32 devotees undertaking padyatra to Dhandayudapani Temple in Palani were killed and 107 were injured in road accidents in Dindigul district since 2020. According to a response given by police department in a reply to a RTI query filed by TNIE, in 2020 three people died and six people were injured, 2021 reported two deaths and 10 injured, 2022 reported 12 deaths and 25 injured, 2023 reported six deaths and 28 injured, 2024 reported three deaths, and 23 injured, and upto April 2025, six deaths were reported on the national highways, state highways, and even village roads in Dindigul leading to Palani. G Dheenadayalan, ward councillor of Palani municipality, told TNIE, 'Over 1.5 lakh devotees take up padayatra to the Palani temple during Thaipusam festival, and around 40,000 people visit the temple every day during Pongal. However, they are under constant fear of being hit by vehicles. This happens mostly during the night and early morning due to poor visibility.
Daily Express
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Ramasamy claims trial to 17 CBT charges
Published on: Wednesday, May 14, 2025 Published on: Wed, May 14, 2025 By: Predeep Nambiar, FMT Text Size: Former Penang deputy chief minister II and Penang Hindu Endowments Board chairman P Ramasamy is accused of using PHEB funds between May 2019 and February 2022 without obtaining the board's formal approval. BUTTERWORTH: Former Penang deputy chief minister II P Ramasamy was charged with 17 counts of criminal breach of trust (CBT) today involving Penang Hindu Endowments Board (PHEB) funds during his time at its helm. Ramasamy, who was the PHEB chairman from 2010 to 2023, is accused of using RM859,131.29 in PHEB funds between May 2019 and February 2022 without obtaining the board's formal approval. Thirteen charges against the 76-year-old are linked to the procurement of a RM779,131.29 gold-plated Thaipusam chariot in 2019. Two charges are linked to RM65,000 in medical assistance to individuals, while two other charges are linked to RM15,000 in education sponsorships. Ramasamy pleaded not guilty after the charges were read out before judge Zulhazmi Abdullah at the sessions court here. The charges were framed under Section 409 of the Penal Code, which provides for a maximum jail term of 20 years, whipping, and a fine upon conviction. Bail was set at RM78,000. Lawyers Shamsher Singh Thind, Eng Yuh Pei, and Archana Chandrasekaran represented Ramasamy while Azura Zulkiflee and Nurnajihatul Idayu Azuyar prosecuted. Selva Mookiah held a watching brief for the PHEB. During mitigation, Shamsher said Ramasamy had cooperated with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) throughout the investigation process, including by paying a RM20,000 MACC bond when he was first arrested on May 12, 2024. Shamsher also said his client had not bothered anyone during the investigation or put anyone in PHEB under duress. 'The court must take his character, means, and standing into account. He is an Indian community leader without a title,' he said. The court set July 15 for mention. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Independent Singapore
01-05-2025
- Politics
- Independent Singapore
Paris V's call for Thaipusam to be reinstated as a public holiday gets loudest applause at WP's East Coast rally
SINGAPORE: When new Workers' Party candidate Paris V Parameswari called for Thaipusam to be reinstated as a national public holiday in Singapore at a rally on April 29, she received the biggest cheers of the night. Ms Paris is part of the WP team contesting at East Coast GRC, headed by former Non-Constituency Member of Parliament Yee Jenn Jong. The candidate made reinstating Thaipusam the highlight of her speech, acknowledging that it had been WP MP Jamus Lim (Sengkang) who had raised the topic in Parliament. Ms Paris explained the context of the WP's stance. 'In 1968, the government at the time reduced the number of public holidays and the Hindu community was asked to choose between Deepavali and Thaipusam,' she said, pausing as the crowd expressed displeasure with boos. Going on to explain that as Hindus chose to retain Deepavali, this left Hindus in Singapore with only one public holiday. However, as the years have gone by, Thaipusam has become 'a spiritually significant affair for many Hindus in Singapore… as many of them fulfill their vows…as an act of gratitude and penance. So it is time to reinstate Thaipusam as a national public holiday and to increase the total number of public holidays in Singapore to 12,' Ms Paris said amid loud cheers. She then went on to talk about the PAP's East Coast GRC rally on April 26. She quoted candidate Dinesh Vasu as responding to 'a common sentiment that Singaporeans share' when he said, 'There is talk of there being too many foreigners. Do we want our sons and daughters to be on construction sites and as laborers?' 'My fellow Singaporeans, the issue is not about laborers or people working in construction, people trying their best and doing good, honest work deserve respect,' Ms Paris said, while in the background, WP chief Pritam Singh and Hougang MP Dennis Tan are seen applauding. 'That is something to remember as Labor Day nears. What is at stake is really about ensuring good work and business opportunities for Singaporeans, including PMET jobs, so we can work hard and provide for our families. There have been foreign laborers in our country for many decades, but did we have an issue with that? The answer is obviously not. Singaporeans do not have an issue with our foreign laborer brothers.' Ms Paris, 51, is a former US Navy Security Administrator who resigned to participate in the GE. She also worked for six years with the Singapore Navy and has been volunteering with the WP since 2021. Her April 29 speech, where she also touched on national security and data privacy issues, has gotten a lot of positive feedback online, with some saying she, together with Mr Singh and Mr Yee, were the best speakers of the night. 'Close your eyes and listen. You will know for sure this is one true Singaporean indeed. A simple and sincere message. She deserves a place in Parliament,' wrote one YouTube user. 'Went there with my EC friends. Paris V was amazing, stellar resume, extensive corporate, civil service, and grassroots volunteerism. On point with her script, addressed some PAP key points, good speaker, linguistically can appeal to many segments, possesses the boldness to speak up, a real gem,' a Reddit user wrote. Another commented, 'The loudest cheers of the night were in response to the call for Thaipusam to be made a public holiday again ('again', because it previously was a PH but that got abolished years ago). If you think about it, this is indeed a straightforward way to improve everyone's lives – while it's only for one day off each year, this means a lot to our Hindu brothers and sisters, and will be an appreciated break for the rest of us too. Hope this can become a reality!' /TISG Read also: 'This is long overdue': Some Singaporeans agree with Jamus Lim that Thaipusam should be reinstated as a public holiday
