CONDOLENCE MESSGE BY WAYTHA MOORTHY PONNUSMY, PRESIDENT, MALAYSIAN ADVANCMENT PARTY
My deepest condolences to the family of Tun Samy Vellu on his passing. I had my first serious conversation with him at the age of 20. Eventually, I got to know him better when I was involved in the MIC Club London.
My journey in Hindraf put us at crossroads. At a point of time, I had to tell him I had to do it my way for the sake of the community, even if it means being incarcerated.
Post-Hindraf rally, I have criticized him on many occasions and may have hurt his feelings. But none of it was personal. I respect him as a good leader who contributed to the society and country in a great way.
The fact remains he was probably one of the greatest leader serving in the cabinet representing the Indian community during his tenure . He was tough and a fighter. None of his successors are able to keep up to his standards till to date.