MIED Loan

Loans are available for application right now.... The closing date will be on the 15th of August 2010... Applicants may download forms from the link below...

Link: http://www.mied.com.my/download-2009/MIED%20LOAN%202009%20V2.pdf

Importants of Tamil Language

Tamil, a language from Proto-Dravidian was believed to be spoken around the third millennium BC. Since then, Tamil has evolved to many stages from simple classifications such as old Tamil, middle Tamil & modern Tamil. It is a language spoken predominantly by Tamil people of the India subcontinent. Ever since that, Tamil found its way through the flows of the sea & roads of the land, reaching many people all around the world. Today we can say that apart from India, one country that is proud of the existence of Tamil language is Malaysia.

Malaysia, well-known for its multi-racial societies, cultures, customs & traditions is also well-known for the diversity of language & its importance. Spoken languages in Malaysia vary according to the province, state & even village for what that matters, though the National Language of Malaysia is Bahasa Malaysia. Although it may seem as such, the Malaysian education system does give equal importance to other languages to show their morale & respect to the society of multiple ethnic background. Tamil, long surviving in Malaysia ever since our ancestors set foot in Malaya as it was called "Swarnaboomi" those days; is perhaps the essence of the Indian culture that was started in Malaysia till today. Many Tamil schools & temples were built; along with associations that would nurture the Tamil language itself being established are one of the few indications that Tamil is significantly important as it is our mothertongue and depicted as a legacy for all Indians being part of our history.

Little do we know, that Tamil striving amongst very few of us to this very day, is yet to get diminished. One may ask why, but the answer lies within. Sure it is not necessary for each parent to send their children to Tamil schools in order to obtain the knowledge because free Tamil classes are provided in SK schools & there are private tuition centres, tutors, etc willing to teach Tamil. The real cause of this is the lack of Tamil speaking people as well as exposure to the importance of Tamil.

How many of us speak English more often than Tamil in our daily conversation, even within our own community? How many of us feel it is embarrassing to converse in Tamil while another friend of a different race is around? How many of us actually care that Tamil is being misused? All these are questions one must raise upon one's self. Even this article, speaking of the importance of Tamil is in English, what may one expect! As for now, we should indulge ourselves in activities whereby, we could learn & improve the quality of Tamil speaking among our people. Parents being Indian, it hurts to see their children calling them, "Mummy" & "Daddy". What are we, whites? Now looking at the fact, the European people have began learning Tamil & are easily conversing as they acknowledge its existence being one of the oldest language ever since time & space continuum was found! But we being Indians calling our parents, "Mummy, Daddy" is ridiculous! Sadly, this is the condition in Malaysia as for today!

Thus, parents should encourage their children to speak Tamil first, I'm not saying about the reading & writing part, just a mere speech where one child would be able to speak Tamil fluently is good enough. If they wish to make their children learn then indulge them in classes so on & so forth. Parents play an important role, as education for a child starts at home. Parents should not neglect the importance of Tamil as, as it is a globalised world right now. Even the online community have come across 'village without borders' in order to access the whole world's knowledge. It is then very likely for a non-Tamil kid to speak Tamil very fluently even than Indian kids. So when a Chinese & Malay kid comes & asks your kid a word or two in Tamil, what would you expect your kid to do? You want to let him/her to feel left out or embarrassed? Teach him/her Tamil you guys! Don't let him/her be a social outcast! Not in the own community nor the social circle. Let him/her learn his/her mothertongue, Tamil & of course English, we can't argue with the International Language here.

I hope many have seen from my eyes what lies in the importance of Tamil. It is basically to mold one's character based on culture. If you consider that one to be educated alone is character than it is false. But if you consider one to be educated & cultured is what builds character than Tamil should not be neglected as it is the soul of every Tamil-Indian; because language is the essence of culture.

Tamil Schools

Malaysia is the only country besides India where Tamil schools still survive. We know that Tamil schools have been established over 100 years ago. Since then we have witnessed changes in the education system of Tamil schools, along with students and their achievements both in curricular and co-curricular wise. Tamil schools have been the very foundation of many Indians today who we are proud of, sprouting the very basics of culture and the essence of Tamil language itself. If there is one thing that still makes Tamil strive in our country Malaysia, it is Tamil schools. However, little has been done for what these Tamil schools have done for our Indian community.

Recently, I have set my sights upon my own primary school, SJK(T) Subramaniya Barathee, Penang (picture below). While I graduated there since year 2000, I have noticed many significant changes as mentioned but sadly the school lacks infrastructure wise. The number of achievers have rapidly

increased following the UPSR results as by year 2010, that now this school stands tall as one of the best schools in Penang and still goes on to perform well. The displease that this school deserves much more just seems to grow even more now that the school currently, in the year of 2010, have yet to improve in their infrastructure.

Early this year after the SPM results were out, in Penang state, St. George's Girls' School (SGGS) published an issue in The Star newspaper about their top achievers'. One of them happened to be an ex-Barathee student, Deepa Manogaran (picture below).

She has made both her parents and her ex-primary school very proud. But people like this exist in almost every Tamil school, not denying the fact. But nonetheless, there are those who fail to sprout out of it. It is true parents play an important role, but those who are studying in Tamil schools are not exactly stable in financial wise. Education serves to improve the quality of human life, why not provide it fair to everyone, the rich and the poor? By studying in a moderate school, with poor infrastructure 1 out of 50 students could excel, imagine the outcome if the school had proper facilities! The rest as the nation has seen result to gangstrism, violence, committing crimes such as theft, working as a factory worker, and even some getting married at an early age. Do we want these series of events to continue to occur?

Tamil schools have the potential to strive among the Chinese schools and the SK schools provided they are given the equality. Statistics show that there are over 522 Tamil schools nationwide. And MIC alongside with the government have allocated RM80million assistance package for Tamil schools. It is necessary that these Tamil schools be redeveloped to provide its quality of education and culture for the new generation. Tamil schools are not to be forgotten or neglected whatsoever. It plays a major role in developing education and the Indian culture of Indian students and thus should not be looked down upon. I wish all the best to the aiding societies, and Tamil schools nationwide to continue their struggle to succeed in their doings. Vaazhga Tamil....

By,

J.Sivasankaraan

Happy Vikriti New Year

Pangandaran Trip Planning

Pangandaran is a small town and a subdistrict in southern Cianis regency, West Java, Indonesia. It is located on the southern coast of Java. Pangandaran is a popular tourist destination, having a beach which is considered to be one of the finest in Java and which offers excellent surfing.

A kite-flying festival is held on the beach in July each year. Locals regularly use kites in the evenings to catch bats,which are either eaten or used in Chinese remedies. There is a local belief that wearing any green garment in this area will anger Loro Kidul, the Javanese guardian spirit or goddess of the southern sea, and will bring misfortune.

The Penanjung Pangandaran nature reserve is nearby on a peninsula connected to the mainland by a narrow neck of land. About eighty percent of the nature reserve is secondary rainforest. The flora of the nature reserve includes the Rafflesia.

Nyepi- Bali's Day of Silence

Tues, 16th MAR 2010- Today is Nyepi, Bali's Day of silence that falls on Bali's Lunar Year. It is a day of silence, fasting, and meditation.

Observed from 6 a.m. until 6 a.m. the next morning, Nyepi is a day reserved for self-reflection and as such, anything that might interfere with that purpose is restricted. The main restrictions are: no lighting fires (and lights must be kept low); no working; no entertainment or pleasure; no traveling; and for some, no talking or eating at all. The effect of these prohibitions is that Bali’s usually bustling streets and roads are empty, there is little or no noise from TVs and radios, and few signs of activity are seen even inside homes. The only people to be seen outdoors are the Pecalang, traditional security men who patrol the streets to ensure the prohibitions are being followed.

Although Nyepi is primarily a Hindu holiday, non-Hindu residents of Bali observe the day of silence as well, out of respect for their fellow citizens. Even tourists are not exempt; although free to do as they wish inside their hotels, no one is allowed onto the beaches or streets, and the only airport in Bali remains closed for the entire day. The only exceptions granted are for emergency vehicles (ambulance, etc) carrying those with life-threatening conditions and women about to give birth.

On the day after Nyepi, known as Ngembak Geni, social activity picks up again quickly, as families and friends gather to ask forgiveness from one another, and to perform certain religious rituals together.

Happy Valentine's Day & Happy Chinese New Year

14th Feb 2010- This marvelous day comes with a double-combo celebration when we have 2 celebrations coinciding: Valentine's Day & Chinese New Year.... So we of PMB would like to wish everyone Happy Valentine's & Gong Xi Fa Cai.... What-do ya know?? It's a Valentine- Chinese New Year....! (Chuckles!) Spread the love people.... Inside joke: Love all; but don't love others' wives more than you love your own wife!

Valentine roses

Hi there boys and girls.... As you all (at least some!!!) would know that this coming Sunday, 14th Feb 2010 marks a very special day... Yeah you are right.... It's Valentine's Day.... I am aware that many have plans for that special day.... Yeah some of you guys would have already booked a place in a restaurant, a boat-date perhaps by the sea, some trip to romantic gateways, or just a candle light dinner with your loved ones.... However we from PMB would also like to be apart of your romantic moment.... That's right.... Valentine roses are up for sale.... And the prices are darn cheap!!!! It's not a lie; you can bet on that.... The price list is as follows:-

(a) Blushing Beauties - a bouquet of 3 roses finely decorated with wrapping (Rp.20,000)

(b) Heaven's Seven - a bouquet of 7 roses finely decorated with wrapping -Holland roses included (Rp.50,000)

(c) Twenty-one-4-my-only-1 - a bouquet of 21 roses finely decorated with wrapping -Holland roses included (Rp.120,000)

(d) Thirty-4-my-unconscious-beauty - a bouquet of 30 roses finely decorated with wrapping-Holland roses included (Rp.150,000)

Each bouquet has certain significance and we render our services in the following ways:-

-secret giveaway (if requested)

-free deliveries made (only subject to Jatinangor area)

-free mini-valentine card included per order

We from PMB would like to wish everyone Happy Valentine's Day and spread the joy of love on this special day.... So hurry up while stocks still last... If you wish to make orders please contact the following people:-

Sivasankaraan (FK 2009)- 08170208874

Suba (FK 2009)- 08170208744

"That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." - William Shakespeare

Thaipusam Greetings

Thaipusam greetings to all Hindhu's celebrating... As you guys know, Thaipusam is an auspicious event celebrated by all Hindhu's to honor Lord Muruga... Usually, prayers are done by performing milk-bath (paal abishegam) for Lord Muruga and coconuts are broken (ranging from 1-1001) as a token of appreciation or to seek for His blessings... So far in Malaysia, Thaipusam is considered to be a mega-event up in Batu Caves, KL and Waterfall Temple, Penang as hundreds of devotees gather around for 3 day spectacular event.... Other minor towns like Sungai Petani, Ipoh and Johor also have their own festivities for Thaipusam... No matter where people pray, God is always one and He sees everybody equal; but nonetheless better visit Him on Thaipusam as you wouldn't want to miss a marvelous event for a lifetime!!! Happy Thaipusam once more.... Majaa.... Vetrivel Muruganukku!!! Aroogara!!!

Happy Pongal Day

Putera MIC Bandung wishes everyone Happy Pongal Day & have a blast.....

Bandung Jazz World

Sometime-in-DEC-which-I-can't-recall-the-date- PMB hosted a trip to Bandung Jazz World. This was an event held in ITB, Bandung. The event lasted for 2 days. So the PMB brought 2 groups of 20 people each on each day. The event featured jazz music played by several bands from all over the world.

There were bands playing from Brazil, Indonesia, India and many more. The highlight of the concert was amazing performance by an Indian band from New Delhi, Parikrama. They were actually a rock band which consists of trans music of metal with classical jazz. Awesome, mind-blowig performance!!! We even took photos with them backstage and they were very nice people as well.

It was a fun-filled leisure event just to spend an evening whereby the PMB members get to chill out and enjoy. If you are a jazz-lover then probably this event is just the best you can get; a collaborative jazz performance. Looking forward to more exciting events.

By,

J.Sivasankaraan

Student Oral Case Assessment (SOCA) Workshop 2009

12th DEC 2009- PMB held a SOCA Workshop in Bale Padjadjaran 4 from 2pm till 5pm. The event saw attendance of over 50 1st year medical students of year 2009. The workshop was conducted one month in prior of the final semester of the 1st years. The purpose of the workshop was to expose the 1st year medical students to plan and gain knowledge about the SOCA. This event was conducted by 2nd year seniors of batch 2008 and it was a big success.

The event saw presentation on 3 major cases: Pneumonia, Sub-acute Bacterial Endocarditis (SBE), and Carcinoma Cervix. The total number of students present was then divided into smaller groups to be guided by 2-4 seniors. Each group had its own Q & A session, discussions and sharing of knowledge as the seniors presented

each case one after another. The workshop committee also had handouts to be distributed which was not sold (just given out full-heartedly!) which would only serve its sole purpose; the benefit of the Malaysian Indian students of UNPAD.

Everybody had fun in learning and that day also marked a continuum of a very strong bond among the 1st years and the seniors. It was more of an ice-breaking session done besides gaining the knowledge. The seniors then wished the

juniors well. Despite having exams at that moment, they still participated to show their support for PMB's effort to strive for the students of UNPAD. What a marvelous event it was!!!

By,

J.Sivasankaraan

Thithikkum Deepavali 2009

22nd NOV 2009-"Thithikkum Deepavali" Nite 2009 was held at Hotel Grand Akila, Bandung, Indonesia. This yearly event saw Putera MIC Bandung (PMB) as a sponsor and also inducted PMB as part of the UNPAD studentbody. We were honored this year for having our MIC Youth Leader, Mr.T.Mohan as our chief guest for this special occasion.

In hopes that this event would broaden people's perspective towards MIC and PMB, Deepavali Nite 2009 saw not only breath-taking performances but also interactions between the delegates with Indian students of UNPAD and Institute of Technology Bandung (ITB). Deepavali Nite

2009 is another effective effort

We also deliberately promoted membership to join PMB and did the launching shortly after. This event would mark a meaningful event in yedone by the Indian students who are studying in Bandung,Indonesia to unite all under one roof for a spectacular evening that would be a reminiscence worth lasting.

By,

J.Sivasankaraan

Dialogue session with MIC delegates-First activity organised by PMB

21st NOV 2009- As our first activity since establishment the PMB organised MIC delegates to come over to Universitas Padjadjaran (UNPAD), Bandung, Indonesia to have a dialogue session with the Indian students in UNPAD. Among the delegates that were present was Mr.T.Mohan MIC Youth Leader, Mr.Mahaganapathy, and Mr.Sivaraj.

The purpose of the dialogue session being held was to let the students of UNPAD are aware of PMB and of course in any ways possible be the source for the Indian students to reach out to the MIC. In that effort, the MIC delegates themselves engaged in heated conversations with the students regarding study loans, MIC's role in the community's development and current issues on the Malaysian Indian community.

The session ended with the MIC delegates giving out presentation on the MIC structure of organisation and their role of establishment as well as welfare for Malaysian Indians and giving out souveniers- Dato Sri S.Samy Vellu's biography- to students who were lucky. By the end of the day, students were satisfied on both as in they got to know more about MIC and they would gain more knowledge on study loans.

A brief introduction

Hello guys and girls, we of Putera MIC Bandung (PMB) are starting our blog today... Today marks a very special day in our history as it our New Year 1st January 2010... Happy New Year to all you folks and PMB members... Hope we have a wonderful year ahead of us....

First and foremost, I would like to acknowledge on PMB that it has already reached out to the Indians here in Bandung, Indonesia and has gained recognition throughout its establishment in August 2009. As far as the purpose of PMB being formed here is concerned, it solely fills the purpose of all Indians here in Bandung, Indonesia. The purpose of PMB being formed here is to unify all Indians under one roof as one regardless of our religion. According to our beloved coordinator, his words say the following, "We need a body that can unite all indians disregarding their religion as it will take us one step nearer towards unity. At the same time we are exploring the potential roles of students (Bandung) that we can play on assisting the effort towards our community's development. It is a long process and a big burden; if anyone out there who believes that our Malaysian Indians welfare is only in the hands of politicians alone, I suggest them to stay out PMB but if they are willing to share a little of this burden then come with us because that is what we are TRYING to do. We may not to be able to solve the problems but our functions will be more like a catalyst that enhances the rate! Thank you."

So being under the banner of Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) does not mean we are politically influenced. But the MIC function as our shelter. As far as PMB's missions and vissions are concerned it is an NGO moving out for the sake of our Malaysian Indians' welfare. For the people in the community consisting of students, parents, educationalists, welfare organisations, etc we would like to speak of our existence in aiding those who are in need such as to fit our purpose. Our mission being "Towards pioneering an educated community" and our vision "To unify all Indians under one banner regardless of their religion" serves as our motto of establishment and we indeed desire to work for the welfare and education of our community in the same idea of giving rise to the Indian community's progress and thus giving rise to the entire nation's development.

By,

J.Sivasankaraan