Launch of the 10,000-word Science, Technical, and General English-Tamil Dictionary

The 10,000-word Science, Technical, and General English-Tamil Dictionary, compiled by Thiru. Perumal Thirumavalavan, was officially launched at a grand event attended by over 300 people at the Soma Auditorium, Malaysia. The dictionary is the result of more than a decade of meticulous work by the author, who compiled newly created Tamil terms into this comprehensive volume.The event commenced with a traditional Nadaswaram performance by Isaikalaivani Selvi Anjali Kathiravan, founder of Agaram Tamil Isai Palli, accompanied by Thiru Yugarasan on the Thavil. A video speech by Dr. Sachithanandam, Director of Education and Founder of the International Institute of Higher Education, Tamil Studies, Paris, was screened, in which he shared insights on the importance of the dictionary and its role in Tamil linguistic development. Additionally, an awareness video featuring two students advocating for the importance of speaking in Tamil was also screened, emphasizing the need to preserve and promote the language.The book launch was presided over by Dato Sri Saravanan, Member of Parliament for Tapah, who formally released the dictionary. As a special gesture, he personally handed copies to attendees who purchased the book. The book was brought to the stage in a palanquin procession, accompanied by children dressed as revered Tamil scholars Tolkappiyar, Thiruvalluvar, Paavanar, and Maraimalai Adigalar, symbolizing the rich heritage of the Tamil language.Dato P. Sahadevan, former Deputy Minister of Health, and Dato Tan Sri Kumaran of the National Land Financial Co-operative Society Limited, delivered congratulatory addresses.Dr. Mei Chitra, President of the Tamil Heritage Movement, Hong Kong, and a co-participant in the Tamil terminology workshop with the author, delivered an appreciation speech highlighting the significance of the dictionary. Tamil researcher Thiru Tamilmurasu recited a poem dedicated to the author's contributions, while Thirukkural researcher Thiru C. P. Annadurai presented a detailed book review.The event also honored prominent figures in Tamil education in Malaysia, including Thiru Munuswamy, Thiru Mannar Mannan, Thiru Iniyan, and Dato Dr. N.S. Rajendran, for their invaluable contributions.The author, Thiru R. Thirumavalavan, who also serves as the National Head of Malaysia Tamil Neri Kazhagam, delivered the acceptance speech and vote of thanks. Thiru Kanalveeran, General Secretary of Malaysia Tamil Neri Kazhagam, welcomed the gathering, while Thiru Maheswaran coordinated the event.- Our Overseas Reporter Dr. Chitra