At 86, when most people slow down to enjoy quiet days, Datuk Dr. G. Rethinasamy walked proudly onto the stage of Universiti Sains Malaysia’s 63rd convocation ceremony to receive something he had chased for decades for his doctorate. For him, age was never a barrier. If anything, it was a reminder that learning is a lifelong commitment.

A lawyer with more than 50 years of experience, Rethinasamy still runs his own legal firm in Butterworth, welcoming clients the same way he always has with an open door, a listening ear, and no charge for their first consultation. Many who enter his office come with heavy burdens, often from low-income backgrounds, and he has always believed in one simple principle: if he can help, he will. Payment, he says, can be figured out later.

His journey to this moment was far from easy. As a young man in Form Six, he had to cut short his studies when his father lost his job. At just 20, he stepped into the nursing field in 1959 to support his family, serving in several hospitals before his passion for law pushed him to pursue studies at Lincoln’s Inn in the United Kingdom.

He returned home determined to serve society, and in 1975, he opened his own legal firm. Over the years, he became more than just a lawyer, he became a pillar within the community. Among his contributions was helping develop low-cost housing in Penang, including 265 affordable units in Tasek Gelugar between 1989 and 1990, each sold for under RM50,000. His commitment to community development and social well-being ultimately shaped the topic of his doctoral research: understanding how planning authorities and developers influence the cost of building affordable homes.

Even today, at 86, his routine remains energetic, and purpose driven. He credits daily exercise, and caring for stray cats near his home, as the simple habits that keep him active and grounded.

Thank you for being an inspiration and role model for those young generations!

Source / Image Credit : Bernama