Kuala Lumpur: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi described former MIC president Datuk Seri G. Palanivel, who died yesterday, as a wise figure adept at handling various issues, whether in the ministry or within the party.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid said Palanivel, who once served alongside him in the Cabinet, made significant contributions not only to the Indian community but to Malaysians in general. He expressed deep appreciation for Palanivel's services and contributions to all Malaysians, particularly the Indian community. Ahmad Zahid acknowledged Palanivel as a friend in the Cabinet, highlighting his calm demeanor and wisdom in managing ministry and party matters.
Meanwhile, Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail described Palanivel's passing as a significant loss, particularly as both had collaborated in the Cameron Highlands parliamentary constituency. Wan Rosdy recalled working with Palanivel on community initiatives when he was the Cameron Highlands member of parliament in 2013, while Wan Rosdy was the Jelai assemblyman and a state executive councillor. He noted Palanivel's significant contributions to efforts aimed at improving the living standards of local communities in Jelai and Cameron Highlands.
Palanivel, 76, passed away at 8 am yesterday at Kuala Lumpur Hospital, leaving behind his wife, Datin Seri P. Kanagam, and four children. Born on March 1, 1949, in Penang, Palanivel started his career in 1973 as a research officer at the National Museum under the Bujang Valley Project. He later joined the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) as a senior journalist in April 1977. In 1984, he served as a sub-editor at the Economic Service and later became the news editor of general news. He was seconded as press secretary to then Works Minister Tun S. Samy Vellu from 1987 to 1990.
Palanivel had been actively involved in politics through MIC since the early 1970s and contested his first General Election in 1990. He won the Hulu Selangor parliamentary seat in the 1990 General Election and served as MP there for four consecutive terms until his defeat in 2008, before returning to Parliament in 2013 as Cameron Highlands MP.