USM PENANG, 1 February 2024 - The man from TEXAS is here for a visit. From Texas Instruments that is.

The former Vice-President of Information Technology at Texas Instruments, USA, Surkunalingam Sinnadurai, along with his wife Lalitha Vythilingam and nephew, Dato’ S. Sathiya Seelan, today graced the Alumni Development Centre (ADC) at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) with his presence.

Surkunalingam, born in Kuala Selangor and a distinguished pioneer alumnus, went to a secondary school in his hometown. Then for his upper secondary education, he went to MBS Sentul, and later did his Form 6 at Victoria Institution.

Following that, he continued his studies at USM. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science (Mathematics) in 1972, he joined Texas Instruments (TI) in 1972.

He then moved to U.S. 1987, retired from TI in 2001. He continued working at i2 Technology until 2008, for 7 years to start their operations in India.

Later he moved to Sweden in 2008, for 3 years working for International Business Systems. Next in 2012, he worked for Symphony Technology Services until 2016. He did freelance consulting until 2020, which he then retired full time.

He had previously held roles such as the Chief Information Officer and Senior Vice-President of i2 Technologies, Inc., as he had served Texas Instruments for 27 years.

His notable career and current residence in Dallas, USA, makes his return to USM all the more special.

In his engagement at ADC USM, Surkunalingam shared insights into his journey and the progress he had witnessed over the years.

With a sense of gratitude, he reflected on his academic years at USM, emphasising that the university will forever hold a cherished place in his heart.

"USM will always be a sweet and beautiful memory for me, as it is here that I acquired knowledge and achieved success," he said.

Amidst the warm ambience, USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Student Development Affairs and Alumni, Professor Dr. Shaharum Shamsuddin who could not attend the visit due to a prior engagement, extends his regards to Surkunalingam.

"Although I couldn't be present today, please accept my warm regards, Surkunalingam. Your connection with USM is a source of pride for our institution," said Shaharum.

Text: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa & Nor Amin Zainal Kamaruddin