TAMILS ARTS AND CULTURE SOCIETY, SINGAPORE

UEN S56SS0004L

Annual General Meeting

Sunday, 22 June, 2025, 7 pm – 8.30 pm (Via Zoom)

 

1. The President’s Opening Remarks.

1.1 The President, Dr. M. Govindaraju, welcomed members to the 2025/2026 AGM. The meeting, conducted via Zoom, was called to order at 7 p.m. The President explained the aspirations and objectives of spreading the love of the Tamil language, Arts, and Culture, and helping fellow Tamils in Singapore.

2. Minutes of the AGM held on 21 July 2024.

2.1 The president discussed the expenditures and successful events mentioned in last year’s AGM, which were accepted by all members present. [Proposer: D. Selvarajan, Seconder: Mr. K Suppiah]

3. 3. Annual Report 24/25: The President highlighted that this year was marked by a series of successful and positive events. It was noted as one of the active and fruitful years in terms of community gatherings and initiatives. The President expressed sincere appreciation to all organisers and members for their dedicated efforts and active participation throughout the year. All members present accepted and adopted the Annual Report. [Proposer: Miss Wai Anandhi, Seconder: Mr. N. Selvaraju]
4. Membership

4.1 The President highlighted the membership details. The total membership in 2025:

1. Life members – 42
2. Ordinary members – 242
3. Associate members – Senior: 26, and students:160
4. Total membership – 470
5. Eligible to Vote: 284

 

5. Annual Accounts for 2024/2025 (From 1.4.2024 to 31.3.2025)

5.1 All members present accepted and adopted the Annual Account. The Bank Account balance as of 31.3.2025: $7814.28 [Proposer: Mr D Selvarajan, Seconder: Ms Wai Anandhi

5.2 DBS Bank – The President, the newly appointed Treasurer, and the Assistant Secretary are required to initiate the Change of Signatories process at the earliest possible time.

 

6. Appointment of New MC Members (2025/2026)

6.1 With that, the Current Management Committee was dissolved, and the following new members were elected:

6.2  Executive Members (6)

(1). President – Dr. M Govindaraju (225F) – (Proposed: Miss Wai Anandhi ; Seconded: Mr. Suppiah).

(2). Vice President – Mdm Vimal Priya Nalini Bakthavatsalam (Vimal Priya) (442D) – (Proposed: Dr. M Govindaraju; Seconded: Mr. Suppiah s/o K)

(3). Secretary – Mr. N. Selvaraju – (314H) (Proposed by Dr. M Govindaraju, Seconded by: Mr. D. Selvarajan)

(4). Assistant Secretary- Mr. S.S. Maran (621G) – (Proposed by Dr. M Govindaraju, Seconded by: Mr. Suppiah)

(5). Treasurer – Miss Wai Wai Lin (Anandhi), (460J) – (Proposed by Dr. M Govindaraju, Seconded by: D. Selvarajan)

(6). Assistant Treasurer – Mr. Muhammed Ashik Bin Sahul Hameed (036A), (Proposed by Dr. M Govindaraju, Seconded by: Mdm Vimal Priya)

 

6.3 Members (7)

(1). Mdm Vanitha Maran – (Proposed by Miss Wai Wai Lin (Anandhi), Seconded by: Mdm Vimal Priya)

(2). Mdm Jeyanthy – (Proposed by Dr. M Govindaraju, Seconded by: Mr. D. Selvarajan)

(3). Mr. Mohamed Ripdeen s/o Samsudeen (386G) – (Proposed by Mr D Selvarajan Seconded by: Ms. Anandhi)

(4). Mr. Gowtham s/o Gopal (885F) – (Proposed by Dr. M Govindaraju, Seconded by: Mr Ashik

(5). Mrs Sachidanandham Ponni (155D) – (Proposed by Dr. M Govindaraju, Seconded by: Mr. D Selvarajan)

(6). Mr D Selvarajan (266D) – (Proposed by Mrs Vimal Priya, Seconded by: Mr N. Selvaraju)

(7). Mr. Suppiah s/o Karuppiah (727I) (Proposed by Dr. M Govindaraju, Seconded by: Mr N Selvaraju)

 

6.4 Internal Auditor (1)

(1). Internal Auditor – Dr.Nachiappan Manivannan (Proposed by Dr .M Govindaraju, Seconded by: Mdm. Vimal Priya)

 

6.5. The above selection of office bearers and members was unanimously agreed, all in favour.

7. Advisor: Mr. R Dhinakaran, former NMP was proposed by Dr. M Govindaraju, the President. Will review in the upcoming first committee meeting.
8. Amendments to the Constitution: No amendment recommended for the Constitution.
9. Change of Address of Society. The following address has been approved by ROS as the Society’s new address : 48 Serangoon Road, #02-19 Little India Arcade, Singapore 217959
10. Handing Taking Over of the Committee is to be held on 06 July,Sunday 2025 at Spice Junction, Little India at 4.pm.

 

11. Upcoming Events

11.1 National Day Dinner – . It is of utmost importance to our society to show our loyalty and love to our nation. Venue yet to be finalised. 60 Ladies and family members to take part in the mass Dance.

11.2 Pongal Celebrations from 14 January to 14 February 2026 featuring kolam contests, Singing, and Cultural dance performances.

11.3 Dinner and Cultural Dance for Executive/Management Committee members, Date and venue yet to confirm.

11.4 Quality Community Circles Contest Meetup/Gathering monthly.

11.5 Ladies/Men/Senior Citizens Quality Community Circles Contest in April 2025 unless we participate in the Tamil Language Month Festival.

 

12. Other Matters:

12.1 The President requested all members to recruit more youth and lady members to join the society. The President asked the committee to work in teams to support the upcoming events.

12.2. A sponsorship amount of $500 will be allocated to Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in support of their upcoming Pongal event.

12.3. The President proposed to initiate a Tamil Community Roundtable to facilitate discussions and collectively raise concerns and needs relevant to the community.

 

13. Thank note: The President requested all committee members to read the Code of Conduct (Annex A) and Pledges (Annex B), and to abide by them so that our society can maintain and further improve its success.
14. Conclusion: As nothing else to discuss, the President thanked everyone for their attendance/participation. The meeting ended at 8.30 PM.

 

 

President                             Secretary                              Treasurer

Dr. M Govindaraju             Mrs Vimal Priya                     Mr. Muhammed Ashik Bin

Nalini Bakthavatsalam            Sahul Hameed

 

Date: 22.6.2025                Date: 22.6.2025                  Date: 22.6.2025

 

MEMBERS ATTENDED

1. Dr M Govindaraju (MaGo)
2. Mdm. Vimal Priya Nalini Bakthavatsalam (Vimal Priya)
3. Mr Muhammed Ashik Bin Sahul (Ashik)
4. Ms M Jeyanthy
5. Mr D Selvarajan
6. Mr Suppiah
7. Mrs. Vanitha Maran
8. Mdm. Udhayarani
9. Mr Gowtham Gopal
10. Ms Wai Wai Lin, (Anandhi)
11. Mr S.S.Maran
12. Mr N Selvaraju
13. Mr Gowtham Gopal
14. Dr Manivannan
15. Dr Ponn

 

 

 

 

 

Annex:A

 

Code of Conduct for Committee Members

1. Attendance Commitment: Once you confirm your attendance for meetings, discussions, or events (including online ones), you must be present. It shows your commitment to participating in society’s activities. [Constitution: 13.4 Any member of the Committee failing to attend three consecutive meetings shall automatically cease to be a member of the Committee.]
2. Punctuality: Arrive on time for meetings and events, at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Being punctual demonstrates professionalism and respect for others’ time.
3. Meeting Etiquette: Wait to leave meetings or online groups with permission from the Chairman. It helps to maintain a focused and organised meeting session.
4. Task Completion: If you accept tasks or responsibilities during meetings or group discussions, complete them within the specified timeframe. It ensures that the society’s objectives are met efficiently.
5. Communication Responsiveness: Respond to messages sent through WhatsApp or email within 3 to 6 hours. Timely communication is crucial for coordination and collaboration.
6. Confidentiality: Refrain from sharing restricted plans or information with unauthorised individuals or authorities. It helps maintain the security and confidentiality of the society’s affairs.
7. Communication Channels: Seek approval from the President before communicating with authorities, the press, or public media. It ensures the information shared is consistent and aligned with the society’s objectives.
8. Dress Code: Wear specified identification items (lanyards, IDs, collar pins) when attending meetings or events, especially when wearing traditional attire, unless decided otherwise by the President. It fosters a sense of unity and professionalism among members.
9. Language Usage: Whenever possible, communicate in Tamil with fellow members. It reflects the society’s cultural focus and promotes effective group communication.
10. Recruitment Responsibility: Take on the task of recruiting new members or volunteers for the society. It helps the society to grow and fulfil its mission. These guidelines aim to create a positive and organised atmosphere, emphasising accountability, respect, and active participation among its members.

 

Annex: B

 

Pledge for Management Committee Members & Observers

Commit to upholding the aims, objectives, mission, vision, and values of the Tamils Arts and Culture Society, ensuring that all actions and decisions reflect the principles and goals of our organization.

I Conduct myself with the highest level of integrity and ethical standards, maintaining transparency, honesty, and accountability in all my responsibilities and interactions.

Serve the organization with dedication and commitment, contributing my skills, knowledge, and experience to further our mission and achieve our objectives.

Foster a spirit of collaboration and teamwork, working cooperatively with fellow committee members, staff, and stakeholders to make informed and effective decisions.

Respect and maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information related to the organization, its members, and its activities, ensuring that trust and integrity are upheld.

Promote inclusivity and diversity within the organization, valuing different perspectives and ensuring that all voices are heard and respected.

Be accountable for my actions and decisions, ensuring transparency in all committee activities, and reporting any conflicts of interest or ethical concerns promptly.

Actively engage in meetings, discussions, and organizational activities, preparing thoroughly and contributing constructively to the collective decision-making process.

Advocate for and implement sustainable practices that support the long-term health and success of the organization and its environment.

Strive for continuous improvement, seeking opportunities for personal and organizational growth, and staying informed about best practices and emerging trends relevant to our work. I will declare if there is a conflict of interest in any matters dealt by me. [End]

 

Note from the President, TACS:

By taking this pledge, we affirm our commitment to promoting the Tamil language, Arts, Culture, our community, and our nation with dedication, integrity, and a collaborative spirit, ensuring that our collective efforts drive positive and meaningful impact.