The late Murugavell Arumugam or “Muru” as he was fondly referred to was an extraordinary man who touched the lives of all those who had the chance of knowing him in his well-lived 62 years.
Muru possessed a very strong character, keen intellect, sharp perception, high integrity, good sense of humor and most of all abundant compassion.
He lived to be true to himself and all that he believed in and cared about. This included his family, friends, workmen and their trade unions, his students and all those he employed.
Muru graduated from University of Malaya in 1964 at the age of 21+ due to several “express promotions”, during his school days. He then served in the government sector for almost three decades. Muru’s first posting was as a Labour Officer in the then Ministry of Labour. After 8 years, Muru was appointed as a conciliator in the Industrial Relations Department. For the next 20 years, Muru had a distinguished career in the Ministry of Human Resources, during which time, he set standards that others strived to follow.
In 1966, Muru married Usha Bhoumick and the loving couple is blessed with 2 sons and a daughter.
Muru had pursued law on his own amidst his work as civil servant and part-time lecturer to students at the Mara Institute of Technology (ITM). In his usual seemingly effortless style, Muru earned an Honours Degree in Law from the Univesity of London in the shortest time possible. Muru then went on to do his CLP and was called to the Malaysian Bar in 1992.
That same year, Muru voluntarily retired as Deputy Director of Industrial Relations and started his own legal practice under the name and style of Messrs Murugavell Arumugam & Co.
In the following 12 years, Muru became well-known employees’ and union lawyer in the Industrial Relations field. Muru was respected both by the bench and his opponent counsel for his sound knowledge of Industrial Law and his persuasive skills of argument, which he displayed with courtesy and kindness.
Muru cared for his clients and did many cases for free. His integrity in dealing with clients was admirable and in return he earned his clients’ esteem and affection. Many clients were known to call Muru as “uncle”.
Muru was a captivating speaker who enjoyed imparting his knowledge to all who sought to learn from him. Knowing Muru was an enriching experience as he was ever ready to help even on personal matters. His generosity was legendary.
Muru was a source of strength, joy and comfort to his friends. He believed in the goodness of man and saw no evil in anyone.
Muru departed peacefully from this earth on 30 January 2004 leaving behind his wife, children, four grandchildren, innumerable friends, many fond memories and legacies.
Warm weather fosters growth; cold weather destroys it. Thus a man with an unsympathetic temperament has scant joy; but a man with a warm and friendly heart overflowing blessings, and his beneficence will extend to posterity.
– Hung Tzu Cheng