Nambikkai, the Tamil-language media platform that has operated out of Malaysia for the past 27 years, has opened a new branch in Chennai, marking its first entry into the Indian market. The platform, whose name translates to “trust” in Tamil, is simultaneously expanding into Singapore and Dubai as part of a broader global push.
The Chennai launch brought together an unusual cross-section of Tamil Nadu’s political and entertainment worlds. Naam Tamilar Katchi chief Seeman, Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, and actors R. Sarathkumar, Radhika Sarathkumar and Nassar were among those who attended and spoke.
A thread ran through nearly every speech: deep frustration with the current state of Tamil media and a hunger for something more credible. Nassar put it most directly. “People are gradually losing trust in the media,” the veteran actor said. “Many stories are twisted just to create sensation. In our film industry, several good films disappear because of distorted reporting. I had stopped watching news channels for this reason. But Nambikkai makes me want to watch news again.”
Seeman echoed that sentiment, pointing to what he sees as the partisan capture of most Tamil media outlets. “Amid today’s media landscape controlled by parties or leaders, people like me look at Nambikkai with great hope,” he said. “Trust is not just a word. In the coming election period, I believe Nambikkai will carry honest and truthful news to the people. I wholeheartedly wish that it earns the trust of Tamilians across the world.”
Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi addressed the tension between speed and accuracy that defines the social media age. “We are in danger of losing authenticity,” he said. “The trust we receive depends on how honestly we deliver ground realities.” He had a pointed message for the new outlet: “Boldly point out mistakes no matter who commits them.”
Sarathkumar brought a personal dimension to the conversation. The actor cited a family connection to Tamil journalism through Daily Thanthi founder Adithanar, whom he described as his uncle. “He founded Thanthi through immense effort. My father worked alongside him, and I also spent time in journalism,” Sarathkumar said. “Journalism must function with the intention of speaking only the truth.” He noted that Nambikkai plans to expand from Malaysia into India, Singapore and Dubai, and wished the platform success across those new markets.
Radhika Sarathkumar was concise. “Media is not just about breaking news. It must act with responsibility,” she said. “Justice, courage and honesty are the true ethics of journalism.”
Nambikkai plans to extend its operations to Singapore and Dubai next. The platform has been active in Malaysia since 1999.