The Penang state government has reiterated it’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation and deepening diaspora relations following a high-level engagement with Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin.
The meeting held at the former actor’s residence in India, brought renewed focus on the longstanding historical, cultural and socioeconomic ties between Penang and Tamil Nadu, particularly those shaped by the Tamil diaspora that has been part of Penang’s social fabric for generations.
Shared Heritage, Renewed Collaboration
Penang Housing and Environmental Committee chairman Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo said the engagement underscored a shared resolve by both governments to enhance bilateral cooperation, especially in areas such as cultural exchange, community engagement, economic collaboration and sustainable development.
“Our discussion explored potential avenues for enhanced collaboration across various sectors, including cultural exchange, community engagement, economic cooperation and sustainable development,” Sundarajoo said in a statement.
He added that both sides reaffirmed the shared heritage and values that continue to bind Penang and Tamil Nadu, while recognizing the importance of nurturing these ties in a manner that is progressive, inclusive, and mutually beneficial.
Strengthening Diaspora Relations
Sundarajoo, who also serves as the Penang Tamil Schools Special Committee chairman, noted that the engagement reflects the Penang state government’s continued commitment to fostering international goodwill and strengthening diaspora relations through strategic partnerships.
According to him, such collaboration plays a vital role in contributing positively to social cohesion, cultural preservation and long-term economic development while also reinforcing people-to-people connections between the two regions.
Looking Ahead
He stressed that the Penang state government remains focused on nurturing international partnerships that promote inclusivity, safeguard cultural heritage and support sustainable progressive, while continuing to strengthen ties with Tamil Nadu as a valued and trusted partner.
Sundarajoo was accompanied by Bagan Dalam state assemblyman K.Kumaran, Batu Uban state assemblyman A.Kumaresan, and North Chennai Member of Parliament Dr Kalanidhi Veeraswamy during the engagement.
The cultural bond between India and Malaysia, particularly between Tamil Nadu and Penang is rooted in a shared history spanning over 300 years, a connection that continues to evolve through renewed cooperation and dialogue.
Sources: Bernama
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