In the evolving political landscape of Malaysia, few names stand out like Thulsi Thivani d/o Manogaran. A dedicated lawyer and politician, Thulsi has emerged as a beacon of hope and transformation. From her early days as a human rights advocate to her meteoric rise in the Perak State Legislative Assembly, her journey is a testament to resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to public service.
A Legacy Rooted in Public Service
Born in 1989, Thulsi Thivani is the eldest daughter of Manogaran Marimuthu, a veteran politician and co-founder of the Tamil Foundation of Malaysia. With a father deeply involved in public service, Thulsi was exposed to politics from a young age, attending rallies, parades, and volunteer events. This early exposure ignited a passion within her, setting the stage for a future dedicated to justice and equality.
Fluent in multiple languages, including Cantonese, Thulsi displayed exceptional academic abilities. She pursued a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at the University of Malaya (UM), where she developed a keen interest in constitutional rights and governance.
A Commitment to Human Rights and Legal Advocacy
After graduating, Thulsi Thivani embarked on a distinguished career in law, working with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to champion freedom of speech and human rights. Her legal expertise and dedication to justice positioned her as a formidable advocate for the marginalized communities of Malaysia.
However, her calling to serve the people on a larger scale came when the Democratic Action Party (DAP) reached out to her, recognizing the need for legal experts in politics. In a bold move, she left a lucrative career in Kuala Lumpur to return to Ipoh and dedicate herself to the party and the people of Perak.
Breaking Barriers in Malaysian Politics
Winning Buntong with a Landslide Victory
Thulsi Thivani’s political journey gained momentum when she was nominated by Pakatan Harapan (PH) to contest in the 2022 Perak state election. Running for the Buntong state seat, she faced stiff competition but emerged victorious with an overwhelming majority of 19,155 votes. Her opponents, including the incumbent, lost their deposits, a clear indication of her popularity and the trust people placed in her leadership.
Fighting for Progress and Infrastructure Development
As the Buntong MLA, Thulsi Thivani made a solemn promise: to improve the infrastructure and quality of life for her constituents. Her tenure has been marked by significant efforts to enhance public amenities, boost local economic opportunities, and address long-standing community grievances.
A Journey of Courage and Determination
Thulsi’s passion for justice was evident even before she entered formal politics. In 2021, she was arrested for participating in a peaceful candlelight vigil, demonstrating her fearless advocacy for democratic rights. Such courage only strengthened her resolve, propelling her into a leadership role within DAP.
With over a decade of active involvement in DAP, Thulsi Thivani has played a pivotal role in multiple election campaigns, including assisting her father in Teluk Intan and Cameron Highlands. Her experience as a special officer to former Deputy Education Minister Teo Nie Ching provided her with firsthand knowledge of policymaking and governance.
An Unstoppable Force for Change
Key Achievements and Contributions
- Legal Advisor for DAP Buntong & DAPSY Perak Committee
- State Assistant Publicity Secretary of DAP Perak (since September 2024)
- Women Assistant Publicity Secretary of DAP
- State Youth Head of Legal Bureau of Perak (DAP)
- Internship under Dato’ Seri Ambiga, a renowned human rights lawyer
- Advocate for education, human rights, and infrastructure development
Inspiring the Next Generation
Thulsi Thivani’s story is an inspiration for young Malaysians, especially women aspiring to enter politics. From challenging societal norms to breaking barriers in leadership, she embodies determination, integrity, and a vision for a better Malaysia.
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