Kuala Lumpur: The late Datuk Seri G. Palanivel, former MIC president and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, has been remembered as a kind, fair and inspirational figure by his family. Speaking to the media during the funeral prayer services at their residence here, Palanivel’s youngest son Sharavanahvel, 31, described his father’s passing as an irreplaceable loss not only to the family but also to the wider community.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sharavanahvel expressed that the passing of his father was a significant loss to him and his family. He emphasized that his father was a kind and fair man, serving as a great role model not only to his immediate family but also to the community at large. The outpouring of support from the community has been a testament to his father’s influence and legacy.
Sharavanahvel shared cherished memories from his childhood, highlighting how his father, despite his busy schedule, always made time for family activities such as fishing, which strengthened their bond. In his final conversation with his father, Sharavanahvel expressed gratitude for the inspiration his father provided and acknowledged the challenging legacy and expectations left for him and his siblings.
Gratitude was also extended by Sharavanahvel for the many condolences and messages of support received by the family since the former Cabinet minister’s passing. The community’s support has been a source of comfort during this difficult time.
Palanivel, aged 76, passed away at 8 am at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital (HKL). He is survived by his beloved wife, Datin Seri P. Kanagam, and four sons. Born on March 1, 1949, in Penang, Palanivel’s career began as a research officer at the National Museum for the Bujang Valley Project in 1973. He later joined the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) as a senior journalist in April 1977.
In 1984, Palanivel was appointed as the editor for Domestic and Economic News at Bernama. From 1987 to 1990, he served as press secretary to then Works Minister, Tun S. Samy Vellu. His political journey with MIC started in the early 1970s, and he first contested in the general election in 1990, winning the Hulu Selangor parliamentary seat and serving as MP for four consecutive terms until 2008. Palanivel made a return to Parliament in 2013 as Cameron Highlands MP.