The Tamil Language Learning Coordination Committee in Pasir Gudang, Johor Bahru, known as Thamizhmozhi Karral Karuthisaivu Seyarkuzhu, successfully organized a book launch event with the support of Iyal Publications on December 16, 2023, at Arulmigu Sithi Vinayagar Temple in Johor Jaya. The book, titled ‘Ratchagan,’ showcases a collection of Tamil short stories authored by secondary school students.
The book, ‘Ratchagan,’ was officially launched by Yuneswaran Ramaraj, Member of Parliament for Segamat. During the event, he expressed his appreciation for the initiative and urged for more publications of this nature in the future.
Yuneswaran Ramaraj stated, “Next year, I am considering organizing a short story workshop similar to this for SJKT Segamat school. Typically, such events are predominantly held in Kuala Lumpur, but now, it’s happening here. Given the significant presence of the Indian community in areas like Segamat, Tangkak, and Ledang, I anticipate that more children from these regions will have the opportunity to showcase their talents and excel.”
There were 60 students participated in a short story writing competition organized by the Tamil Writers Association of Iyal Malaysia (Iyal Ezhuthaalar Mandram). The top 16 stories were selected and compiled for publication in this book.
Thulasi Devi Saravanan from SMK Bukit Jalil, Ajay Dev Murugan and Adithya Vadivelan Jegan from SMK Taman Desa Jaya, Krithika Mohan and Anjali Sri Murali from SMK Taman Pelangi Indah, Herish Mugunthan from SMK Ulu Tiram expressed glee over their works having been published for the first time in the form of a book.
The founder of Iyal Publications, Pon Kokilam said, “The book launch serves a dual purpose. Not only does it foster a reading culture among students, but it also represents a significant effort to augment the availability of Tamil publications in the market. By showcasing the creative endeavors of young writers through events like this book launch, there is a deliberate attempt to contribute to the expansion of Tamil literature and literature in general.”
This initiative aims to make literature more accessible and to encourage a broader audience to engage with Tamil language and culture. In essence, the book launch and the short story writing competition is not just a celebration of individual achievements but a collective endeavor to enrich the literary landscape and promote a love for reading within the community. The book launch organized by the Tamil Language Learning Coordination Committee and supported by Iyal Publications stands as a commendable effort to promote Tamil literature.
Source: Bernama
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