Penang, Malaysia, October 2024 – The 11th Annual Global Organization of Tamil Origin (GOTO) Meet will be hosted in Penang on January 4th and 5th, 2025, at Dewan Sri Pinang. The two-day event will run from 10 AM to 5 PM each day and is set to attract over 1,000 Tamil delegates from more than 40 countries, celebrating Tamil heritage through discussions, exhibitions, and cultural events.
Organized by the Global Organization of Tamil Origin in collaboration with the Penang State Government, this year’s meeting will feature several prominent sub-events, including the Global Connect Conference, the Women Leadership Forum, and a seminar for International MSME Business Owners. Key themes of the meeting will revolve around Tamil culture, arts, fashion, food, and the historical legacy of the Tamil people. Exhibitors will showcase advancements in diverse sectors, such as education, healthcare, Siddha, Ayurvedic naturopathy, and food processing, alongside engineering and business innovations.
The event will also highlight networking and collaboration opportunities between trade associations, exporters, and business leaders from various nations. The exhibition aims to provide crucial insights into government support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), while fostering trade and business discussions, particularly regarding the export of Malaysian-made products. MSME representatives from Tamil Nadu, Malaysia SME Corp, and MAICCI have been invited to participate and enhance the international reach of the event.
Notable dignitaries expected to attend include members of Tamil Nadu’s Legislative Assembly, state union ministers, mayors, and vice-chancellors from across the globe. The event will also be graced by representatives of Malaysia’s Unity Government.
A special session will be dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs, focusing on strategies for growth and success. Additionally, the event will honor distinguished individuals with the prestigious Sadhanai Tamilan Awards, recognizing excellence across various fields. The Nallasan Award will be presented to outstanding teachers, and the Young Juvenile Award will celebrate the achievements of young Tamil talents, encouraging them to continue their work.
This year’s meeting promises to be a remarkable celebration of Tamil heritage and culture while also serving as a platform for business exchange and international cooperation.
Key Dignitaries:
• YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State EXCO for Tourism & Creative Economy
• YB Dato’ Seri Sundarajoo A/L Somu, Penang State EXCO for Housing and Environment
• Mr. Ashwin Gunasekaran, CEO of Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB)
• Mr. J. Selvakumar, President of Global Organization of Tamil Origin & World Tamil Chamber of CommerceWith strong support from local and international Tamil communities, this event is set to become a milestone in global Tamil affairs, celebrating the legacy and future of Tamil culture and business on the international stage.
