In the chronicles of global Indian diaspora history, Selvarajoo Sundram stands as a luminous figure — a man whose dedication, vision, and sacrifice forever altered the narrative of the People of Indian Origin (PIO) worldwide. As Chairman of GOPIO International, Selva — as he was fondly called — championed the dreams of millions, connecting cultures, empowering youth, and nurturing a global Indian identity with unyielding commitment.
Selvarajoo Sundram: A Vision Rooted in Identity and Service
Graduating with a commerce degree from Bangalore University in 1973, Selvarajoo Sundram returned to Malaysia not just with academic qualifications but with a vision far greater. He believed in uplifting his community and preserving the values and legacy of Indian heritage. Upon his return, he immediately immersed himself in service, playing a critical role in reviving and restructuring the Malaysian Association of Indian University Graduates (MAIUG) in the early 1980s.
This foundational work laid the groundwork for his lifelong mission: to empower and connect People of Indian Origin globally, creating a shared space for dialogue, opportunity, and identity.
A Founding Force Behind GOPIO
The turning point came in September 1989 in New York, where Selva participated in the inaugural PIO conference. This historic event birthed the Global Organization for People of Indian Origin (GOPIO). Selvarajoo Sundram was a founding member, and from that moment, he became a driving force in expanding GOPIO’s influence and reach across continents.
Under his guidance, GOPIO evolved into a vibrant, transnational organization. Its International Headquarters were established in Mauritius, and soon, the PIO community found in GOPIO not just a voice, but a powerful advocate for their rights, identity, and progress.
Selvarajoo Sundram: Leadership Beyond Borders
Selva served two terms as President of GOPIO Malaysia and was also the founding President of both GOPIO Malaysia and GOPIO International. His leadership extended far beyond titles — he initiated international forums on academia, entrepreneurship, and culture, creating inclusive platforms for diaspora dialogue.
Selvarajoo Sundram was the backbone of every GOPIO International Convention since its inception, orchestrating major conventions in 2007, 2012, and 2019 in Malaysia. These events brought together PIOs from around the globe, celebrating shared heritage while advancing socio-economic and educational causes.
An Advocate for Policy, Identity and Recognition
One of Selvarajoo Sundram’s most impactful contributions was his advocacy with the Government of India. His close engagement with Indian leadership, including the late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, shaped numerous diaspora-friendly initiatives.
Selvarajoo Sundram was instrumental in the launch of the PIO Card, which later evolved into the OCI Card (Overseas Citizen of India) — a milestone that transformed travel and privileges for millions of global Indians. He envisioned and lobbied for a PIO University to facilitate higher education for diaspora children in India, further anchoring India’s role as an academic hub.
His consistent participation and promotion of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) — particularly the regional PBD in Singapore in 2018 — reaffirmed his unwavering passion for building lasting India-diaspora bridges.
Selvarajoo Sundram: Empowering Through Enterprise
Selvarajoo Sundram held a firm belief — for any community to become self-sustained, at least one-third must be involved in commerce. With this foresight, he launched the GOPIO International Entrepreneur Awards in 2006. Held biennially, these awards celebrated successful PIOs in business and other domains, creating a reservoir of role models for younger generations.
Champion of Culture and Unity
Beyond policy and politics, Selvarajoo Sundram was deeply committed to the preservation and celebration of Indian arts and culture. He was the prime mover behind the establishment of Indian Cultural Centres in Malaysia and beyond, fostering community pride and intergenerational learning.
In 2012, Selvarajoo Sundram launched the PIO International Festival in Kuala Lumpur, drawing artists and delegates from ten countries. This annual cultural extravaganza became a symbol of global Indian unity and expression.
He also founded the Hindu Youth Organisation (HYO) in Port Klang, nurturing the next generation of Indian youth with pride in their heritage and a vision for their future.
Final Acts of Dedication
Even in his final days, Selva remained a tireless servant of the people. He was holding office as President of MAIUG when he passed away on 13th July 2022. His life’s journey was commemorated with reverence during a memorial service at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Indian Cultural Centre in Kuala Lumpur on 18th September 2022.
At this solemn gathering, he was posthumously honored with the title ‘Global PIO Icon’, recognizing his lifelong commitment to the global Indian community. The event was attended by dignitaries, including the High Commissioners of India and Mauritius, and leaders from France, India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Singapore, Australia, and Japan — some joining virtually to pay their respects.
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