Celebrating Tamil Legacy: Singapore's Resilient Journey

President Tharman Shanmugaratnam has paid tribute to the Tamil community for its invaluable contributions to Singaporean society across diverse sectors such as politics, arts, and education. The Straits Times reported on Monday that the President spoke at the launch of the Encyclopaedia of Singapore Tamils on Saturday, underscoring the rich history of resilience and social transformation that characterizes the Tamil community's legacy in the city-state.

The President acknowledged the historical segregation based on caste traditions brought over by migrants from southern India, which closely mirrored societal structures back home. Notably, the most profound changes in societal attitudes, particularly towards caste, emerged post-independence, thanks to a national education system and thriving economy that fostered opportunities for all Singaporeans, irrespective of their social backgrounds.

The EST launch addressed the need for a comprehensive historical record and is a collaborative effort between the Centre for Singapore Tamil Culture and the National Library Board. Chief executive Arun Mahizhnan emphasized that the digital encyclopaedia will serve as a dynamic historical repository, accessible globally, to inspire future generations to connect with their heritage and embrace inclusivity.

(With inputs from agencies.)