A veteran trade union activist who was involved in the country’s trade union movement for more than four decades, Sivananthan died from a bone marrow disease known as myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).

He leaves behind his wife, R Pushpa Devi, and two daughters; Sivanandini, 33, and Sivadarshini, 30.

Union leaders FMT spoke to said the Tampin-born Sivananthan was best known for having helped countless workers in numerous cases at the Industrial Court.

They also fondly remembered the former Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) general council member for his no-nonsense attitude when it came to defending labour rights and standing up for workers.

National Union of Bank Employees general secretary J Solomon recounted how Sivananthan, who he first met in 2001, trained many trade union leaders and spent countless hours – even into the early morning – preparing and teaching them how to assist workers in the Industrial Court.

Solomon said Sivananthan gained international recognition for his vocal advocacy for workers’ rights from global unions such as the International Trade Union Confederation and the International Labour Organization.

Describing Sivananthan as an “inspiration” to many union leaders and workers after passionately advocating for their rights, Solomon said Sivananthan’s extensive knowledge of labour laws and the Social Security Organisation helped win numerous cases and claims in the Industrial Court.

“I regard him as a legend and a figure much feared and respected by many in management, and his opponents across the negotiation table. A true trade union activist, he was dedicated to bringing justice to victimised workers,” Solomon said.

“Almost every day, he could be found in one of the Industrial Courts in the country, often attending multiple court cases, moving from one courtroom to another. With a memory like an elephant’s, few could match his recall and comprehension.

“He was a walking MTUC constitution. I hope one day someone will write a book about him. His experience of spending four decades in trade unionism would certainly enrich the knowledge of trade unions, workers, and industrial relations practitioners.”

Solomon added that Sivananthan, who was approachable and affable, easily made friends with those around him, and ensured that no one was bored in his company.

MTUC president Effendy Abdul Ghani said Sivananthan dedicated most of his life to the trade union movement, holding various positions in trade unions, MTUC, and the National Labour Advisory Council.

Effendy also praised Sivananthan for his kindness and extensive knowledge of trade union movements, adding that he was always willing to help workers in trade disputes.

“Most importantly, he contributed significantly to assisting workers in the Industrial Court,” Effendy said.

Penang MTUC secretary K Veeriah said he first got to know Sivananthan in the 1980s when he was with the Penang Textile and Garment Workers Union and Sivananthan was attached to the Selangor and Federal Territory Textile Workers Union.

“He was someone who was committed to the trade union movement. My memories of him were that he had fixed views about certain issues, and it was quite difficult to sway him from his opinions,” Veeriah said.

“Of course, we differed on various issues on many occasions. But he was a good guy and contributed immensely to the labour union movement for 40 years.”

Meanwhile, National Union of Flight Attendants Malaysia president Ismail Nasaruddin Abdul Wahab said he would remember Sivananthan as a veteran unionist and an industrial relations expert who worked hard at defending workers in the Industrial Court.

“His sudden passing is a great loss for workers.”