JOHOR BAHRU – The Telugu Association of Malaysia (TAM) is a non-profit and non-governmental organisation of the people of Telugu origin residing in Malaysia.

The protem committee was initiated in Bagan Datoh, Perak in the year 1955 which subsequently led to the registration with the Registrar of Societies on the 17th of February 1956 as “The Andhra Association of Malaya” vide Registration Number 631.

On the 16th of December 1963, it was renamed as “Malaysia Andhra Sangamu” which was then subsequently renamed as “Telugu Association of Malaysia” on the 22nd of October 1983.

In the continued efforts to safeguard cultural identity, heritage and preserve the Telugu language, Telugu Association of Malaysia has to-date established 30 branches nationwide and currently represents approximately 500,000 Telugus in Malaysia.

Meanwhile in Johor Bahru TAM branch has come a long way since its establishment as a non-governmental organization in 1987.

Initially known as the Telugu Cultural Association of Johor Bahru, the association was founded by Dr. N. Appalanaidu, with G. Mahendra Rao as the first chairman in 1992.

TAMJB’s aim is to promote and preserve Telugu culture among the Telugu-speaking community in Johor Bahru.

Starting with a modest membership of 50 individuals, the association has grown significantly over the years and now boasts more than 300 members.

According to TAMJB chairman Sivaraman Muthaloo during the early years TAMJB operated from a rented premises, where they conducted Telugu language classes.

The association organized Bajhans, providing a platform for members to connect and celebrate their shared heritage, fostering a sense of unity.

However, Sivaraman said in 2002, the association underwent an official name change and became the Malaysia Telugu Association, reflecting its growing influence and expanded reach within the Telugu community in Malaysia.

Continuing to thrive, TAMJB embarked on a remarkable journey in 2005 to acquire their own building. According to Sivaraman to fund the purchase of their own premises, TAMJB organized a major fundraising dinner.

The event proved successful as they managed in collecting RM25,000. Recognizing the association’s efforts, the Johor state government provided an additional RM20,000 to support the building’s acquisition.

Determined to realize their goal, TAMJB turned to its members and appealed for donations. The response from the community was overwhelming, and the association managed to gather an additional RM35,000.

With the combined efforts of the association, its members and the generous support from the community, TAMJB finally achieved its dream of owning a building.

Recently the Telugu Associaton commemorated its 35th Year Anniversary with a grand dinner programme at the MOXSH Hall, Taman Permas Jaya.

This significant event marked a reunion of the Telugu community, coming together to celebrate their rich cultural traditions after a prolonged period.

Organized with great enthusiasm by the members of the Telugu Association of Malaysia, Johor, the evening was graced by esteemed guests and dignitaries, including the Chief Guest, YB Sarasvathy Nallathamby, who is Kemelah State Assemblywoman. YB Sarasvathy Nallathamby represented Chief Minister YAB Datuk Onn Hafiz Bin Ghazi, who was unavoidably engaged in other official commitments.

In her speech, YB Sarasvathy Nallathamby officially announced the Chief Minister’s office’s generous pledge of RM20,000 to support the Telugu Association of Malaysia, Johor Bahru Branch’s cultural activities for the year and gave away some goodies for five underprivileged families.

The audience witnessed an enthralling cultural performance by the renowned group “Meena Nrithyalaya” from Telangana, India.

Their captivating showcase of Indian culture kept the audience spellbound, adding an unforgivable touch of elegance to the event.

Distnguished guests, included TAM President Dr. S. Vengkata Prathap, Advisor Datuk Dr. Achaiah Kumar Rao and other committee members.

Organizing Chairman, Kanniah Jogulu, said the objectives of the celebration, aimed to raise funds for cultural activities, increase student enrolment for Telugu classes, honour the contributions of past active members, and foster unity within the Telugu community in Johor State.

During his speech, he praised and acknowledged the invaluable support provided by Chairman Sivaraman and Advisor Nagendran Gangganaidu for making this event a remarkable success.

The evening was adorned with spectacular performances not only by the special cultural group from Telangana, India but also by the children of TAMJB members, who showcased various traditional Telugu dances and songs.

The collective efforts of all performers brought joy and vibrancy to the celebration. The event received an overwhelming response, with approximately 450 attendees, including members from Kuala Lumpur and India.

The audience expressed their awe and admiration for the remarkable cultural performances, particularly praising the dancers from Telangana, India, and the commitment displayed by the children.

The funds raised during the event will significantly impact the Telugu community in Johor, ensuring the preservation of their rich cultural heritage and continued support for the Telugu language classes across various locations.

Later a felicitation session was held for TAM advisor and former president of TAM Datuk Dr. Achaiah Kumar Rao for utmost contribution for the Telugu community particularly for being instrumental in building the TAM Academy in Sungai Choh, Rawang.

The Telugu Academy of Malaysia is an Icon project and the education arm of Telugu Association of Malaysia with an objective of setting up an epic centre for Telugus to learn the language, culture and fine arts.

With the success of this remarkable celebration, the committee envisions organizing a larger event in the near future, aiming to showcase the full depth and richness of Telugu culture.

The event aims to foster collaboration and cultural exchange between India, Malaysia, and Singapore.

As the festivities concluded on a high note, the Telugu Association of Malaysia, Johor Bahru Branch, expressed its gratitude to all participants, guests, and sponsors who contributed to making this anniversary dinner programme a memorable success.