Sixteen different Tamil associations functioning in various parts of the Kingdom gathered in Jeddah on Thursday to unify themselves under one name, the Saudi Tamil Sangam (STS). Leaders of Tamil organizations from Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Abha, Khamis Mushayt, and Yanbu gathered for the occasion. While all the organizations will act independently, Saudi Tamil Sangam will foster partnership amongst member groups, share information, aid needy Tamils, seek more benefits and concessions from governments for families as well as private individuals in India in the fields of education, health and investments. A literary program was organized for the event jointly by Jeddah Tamil Sangam, Gulf Resident Indian Tamils Association (GRITA) and Tamil Fine Arts and Recreation Group (TAFREG). A governing body was nominated with Abdul Malik (Jeddah) as President, Suresh Barathi (Dammam) Vice President, Imthias Ahmed (Riyadh) Secretary, Muruga Dass (Abha) Joint Secretary and Seetha Raman (Yanbu) Treasurer. An advisory board and executive committee was set-up with one representative from each association to assist and guide the new organization. The Indian Ambassador M.O.H. Farook was the chief guest and new Haj Consul B.S. Mubarak also attended the meeting. __
