The Shocking Truth Behind Tamil Schools’ ‘International’ Gold Medals: Are Syndicates Selling Fake Glory?

 

In a scathing Facebook post that has sparked widespread discussion within Malaysia’s Indian community, activist Nedumaran Elangovan has blown the whistle on what he describes as a “sindiket” (syndicate) exploiting Tamil primary schools (SJKTs) through dubious international science fairs.

In a hard-hitting revelation, Nedumaran Elangovan asserts that 100% of the gold medals won by Malaysian Tamil schools (SJKTs) in these so-called “international” science fairs are nothing more than products of pay-to-win scams orchestrated by syndicates. He describes these events as private, low-effort gatherings where medals are essentially purchased as part of expensive packages—leaving students with worthless accolades while draining school and parental funds.

Nedumaran Elangovan’s revelations paint a picture of a well-organized operation that preys on schools’ desires for recognition, luring them into expensive ventures that yield little more than “worthless” medals. At its core, the issue raises critical questions about transparency, educational priorities, and the vulnerability of underfunded institutions.

Nedumaran Elangovan’s post, shared on his Facebook profile, urges parents, teachers, and the broader community to stop falling for these schemes.

“If you want to make money, be upfront to the parents & teachers about what you are selling,” he writes.

“Don’t lie to kids that they have achieved something, which at the end of the day is worthless.”

He criticizes schools for partnering with these organizers simply for perks like 17 PAJSK points and calls out the “us vs them” mentality that fuels participation.

Instead of chasing fleeting glory, he argues, resources should address real needs—like ensuring students can afford basic sports gear.

How the Syndicate Operates: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

According to Nedumaran Elangovan, the syndicate is led by a Malaysian man with a background in a government agency, now running his own “persatuan” (association). This group collaborates with “STEM Education Centre” operators who have built personal ties with Tamil school Parent-Teacher Associations (PIBGs). Their modus operandi is sophisticated yet deceptive:

1. Initial Approach and Gaslighting: Agents, often retired or ex-teachers, target SJKTs with narratives of neglect. They claim the Ministry of Education (KPM) has ignored Tamil schools, rigging the system against them. Phrases like “nambe pullingow nambethan pakkenum” (a Tamil expression implying self-reliance in the face of adversity) are used to emotionally manipulate school leaders.
2. International Partnerships: The syndicate partners with similar associations in countries like Indonesia, Taiwan, India, and Vietnam to host “science fairs.” These events are far from prestigious—they’re private affairs held in modest venues like restaurant halls, with judges who are friends or contacts of the organizers. Elangovan alleges that outcomes are pay-to-win: the more money invested, the more medals secured.
3. The Package Deal: Schools receive official-looking invitation letters. Once accepted, they must purchase comprehensive packages covering travel, accommodation, sightseeing, and guaranteed medals. Additional fees apply for “coaching” services to prepare students’ pitches and materials.
4. Funding and Pressure: Without KPM approval, schools can’t access official funds, so the burden falls on parents, PIBGs, and private sponsors. This often involves aggressive fundraising, with costs running into hundreds of thousands of ringgit for trips abroad.
5. The Aftermath: Participants attend a half-day event, collect medals, and return to parade their “achievements” in local media. Schools then lament the lack of recognition for SJKTs, perpetuating the cycle. - thecoverage.my