Petaling Jaya: Prominent educationist and founder of the Sri Murugan Centre (SMC), Tan Sri Dr M. Thambirajah, died today. He was 83.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, SMC co-director Surain Kanda stated that members of the public may pay their last respects tomorrow at SMC Ashramam, Petaling Jaya, Selangor from 10 am to 2 pm, before the final rites at Nirwana Setia Alam at 3 pm. Surain described Thambirajah as more than just a leader, but a visionary whose mission was to ensure that every Indian home produced at least one graduate, transforming the lives of thousands through his efforts.
Thambirajah was born in 1942 and founded SMC in 1982 with the goal of uplifting Indian students through academic support, personal discipline, and self-confidence. The initiative began with four small centers and grew into a nationwide movement with over 103 physical and 128 virtual centers, serving more than 10,000 students annually.
An alumnus of the University Malaya, Thambirajah earned his M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Washington, USA, and later completed his LL.B. (Hons) from the University of London. He served as a senior lecturer at UM and authored several influential works, including the history textbook “Malaysia Dalam Sejarah.” His contributions were recognized both in Malaysia and internationally, being conferred the title Tan Sri in 2012 and receiving India’s highest award for overseas Indians, the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman.
Thambirajah also played roles on key national advisory bodies, including the Special Implementation Taskforce on the Indian Community and the Social Council under the Prime Minister’s Department. Surain highlighted that over 52,000 students have graduated through SMC to date, emphasizing Thambirajah’s belief in action over rhetoric and service over self.
Thambirajah is survived by his wife Puan Sri Indirani Arunasalam, two children Dr Sumitra Thambirajah and Anannd Thambirajah, and two grandchildren. Condolences and floral tributes can be sent to SMC Ashramam, No. 40, Jalan Bukit 11/2, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
Former Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, Datuk Seri S.K. Devamany, extended his heartfelt condolences to Thambirajah’s family, describing him as a mentor and visionary who transformed the educational landscape for Malaysian Indians. Devamany, who studied under Thambirajah in 1982, recalled the modest beginnings of SMC and its growth into a nationwide educational movement under Thambirajah’s guidance.
Former Malaysia Hindu Sangam president Datuk A. Vaithilingam expressed shock at Thambirajah’s passing, recounting their early interactions during youth organization programs and the foundational days of SMC. Vaithilingam praised Thambirajah’s role in implementing administrative reforms that instilled discipline and made SMC an iconic educational institution.
Transport Ministry secretary-general and former SMC student, Datuk Jana Santhiran Muniayan, expressed deep sorrow over Thambirajah’s passing, highlighting his dedication to community, education, and public service. Santhiran described Thambirajah as a beacon of inspiration whose compassion, integrity, and commitment to uplifting others will never be forgotten.