Serving devotees and spreading compassion since 1975

 

You are warmly invited to the USM Thaipusam Thanneerpanthal 2026, taking place on 31st January and 1st February 2026 at the MBPP Youth Carpark, Jalan Waterfall, Penang.

For over 51 years, the Thanneerpanthal has been a cherished tradition of community service, volunteerism, and devotion, uniting USM staff, students, alumni, and volunteers to serve the public during Thaipusam. This year, we will be serving 3,000 free vegetarian meals and 20,000 refreshing syrup drinks to devotees, all made possible by the dedication of our volunteers and the support of the USM community.

Join us to be part of this meaningful celebration, enjoy delicious vegetarian meals, and witness the spirit of service and togetherness that has defined the Thanneerpanthal for more than five decades. Everyone is welcome. Bring your family and friends and share in this noble tradition.

About the USM Thaipusam Thanneerpanthal

Established in 1975, the USM Thaipusam Thanneerpanthal is one of Universiti Sains Malaysia’s longest-running community service initiatives. What began as a small, self-constructed panthal built by volunteers has, over the years, grown into a meaningful annual tradition held at the MPPP Car Park, Jalan Waterfall, serving iced cordial and syrup drinks to thousands of devotees during the Thaipusam festival.

Over more than five decades, the Thanneerpanthal has evolved in scale while remaining rooted in its original purpose, selfless service to the community. In addition to beverage distribution, the initiative has expanded its impact by providing free vegetarian meals to approximately 3,000 devotees, ensuring nourishment and care for those undertaking the sacred pilgrimage. Due to the long span of its history and limited archival records, documenting its full journey has been a challenge; nevertheless, the spirit of volunteerism has been carried forward continuously by generations of USM students and staff.

In 2015, the initiative was formally renamed under the banner of USM Sekretariat Khidmat Masyarakat Thaipusam, reflecting a more structured and mission-driven approach to community engagement.

In 2026, the USM Thaipusam Thanneerpanthal proudly marks its 51st year of service. The initiative is organised by USM Sekretariat Khidmat Masyarakat Thaipusam and co-supported through student volunteer manpower by Sekretariat Sukarelawan India (SSI) USM. It stands as a collective effort of the USM community bringing together students and staff, united by a shared commitment to service, compassion, and social responsibility.

USM Sekretariat Khidmat Masyarakat Thaipusam proudly affirms that it is the only IPTA initiative that has continuously provided organised social service during the Thaipusam festival.