These words definitely ring true for A Vaithilingam. The educator, activist and leader has devoted his life to serving the nation, with his contributions to sports development and administration, inter-religious harmony, education, and humanitarian leadership leaving a lasting impact on Malaysia’s social landscape to this day.
Now, an inspiring biography celebrating the man’s remarkable life journey offers a heartfelt account of Vaithilingam’s values, struggles, and achievements.
Written by veteran journalist A Kathirasen, “Vaithi – A Life of Service” contains various anecdotes from Vaithilingam’s early life, and chronicles over five decades of his dedicated service to social development, interfaith dialogue, and advocacy for the underprivileged.
Officiated by National Land Finance Co-operative Society managing director B Sahadevan, the book launch took place at the Royal Lake Club here on Aug 12.
“This book is largely based on Datuk Vaithilingam’s memories. I’m amazed by his ability to remember so many details of his life, which came in very helpful in writing this,” Kathirasen said at the event.
Chapters include Vaithilingam’s contributions to the country’s golden age of athletics under former minister Ghazali Shafie; the formation of the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism; and Vaithilingam’s assistance of housewife Indira Gandhi during her children’s unilateral conversion case.
The 352-paged book also contains various photographs showcasing personal and professional highlights in Vaithilingam’s life.
Kathirasen explained that the book was written in simple, straightforward language to ensure it could be read and appreciated by as many people as possible.
It includes several Q&A segments with Vaithilingam, who shares his thoughts on topics such as issues surrounding Malaysian sports, amendments to Article 121(1A) of the Federal Constitution, and temple demolitions.
The author said he felt it was important to present these sections in a format that captures Vaithilingam’s own words on these important matters.
Born in Singapore in 1934, Vaithilingam started his career as a trainee teacher before becoming involved with the Selangor Schools Sports Council.
He eventually became a key figure in national sports development, including being a founder member of the Asean Schools Sports Council in 1978.
Vaithilingam is also a pillar of the local Hindu community, having served as president of the Malaysian Hindu Youth Council and the Malaysian Hindu Sangam. He was and remains well-known for his strong belief in fostering unity and dialogue among diverse communities.
Vaithilingam’s numerous accolades include the Pingat Jasa Kebaktian in 1978 and the Tokoh Guru Selangor Award in 1989.
In 2010, the Malaysia Hindu Sangam bestowed him with the Sanga Ratna (Diamond of Sangam) and, in 2012, he was inducted into the Olympic Council of Malaysia Hall of Fame for his service in the development of athletics in Malaysia.
Present at the launch were esteemed guests from ministries, associations and other prominent groups. They included former health minister and ex-MIC president Dr S Subramaniam, sports legend Mani Jegathesan, deputy minister in the prime minister’s department M Kulasegaran, and former deputy minister Ong Kian Ming.
Vaithilingam also spoke during the event, delighting the audience with heartfelt and honest thoughts about everything from sports associations to family life.
He emphasised his belief that any kind of racial or religious obstacle can be overcome by approaching challenges in a confident yet positive, respectful and polite manner.
“I’m overjoyed to see a lot of my old friends here today. After more than 60 years of social work, covering different fields, it’s nice at the age of 91 to see this book here,” Vaithilingam said.
“All my life I have been working not as an Indian, Malay or Chinese, but as a Malaysian. Whatever I did, whether it was sports or social activities or religion or youth work, it has been as a Malaysian. This has been my theme all the time.”
To obtain your copy of ‘Vaithi – A Life of Service’, contact Ms Banu or Ms Subitra at 03-2698 9199.