Arvind Poobalan
Arvind Poobalan is the Founding Chairman of the Batu Uban Ayyappan Service Society (BUASS), a spiritual and service-driven nonprofit based in Penang, Malaysia. Under his visionary leadership, BUASS has grown into a vibrant platform that nurtures religious devotion, cultural education, and social service for the Ayyappan community in Malaysia. His work has touched the lives of many, uniting spirituality with service and creating meaningful impact that extends beyond religious boundaries.
A Spiritual Calling from Childhood
Arvind’s journey into spiritual and community leadership began at the tender age of seven, guided by the hands of his mother. From early on, he was drawn to the poojas and rituals of Lord Ayyappan, gradually becoming more involved in temple activities and devotional gatherings. What began as a personal spiritual path eventually evolved into a life of service. "Happiness starts with giving," Arvind says, a personal motto that encapsulates the spirit with which he leads BUASS and lives his life.
The Birth of BUASS: Community-Rooted Leadership
Founded in 2020 during one of the most uncertain times in recent history, BUASS emerged not just as a religious society but as a beacon of service. As the Founding Chairman, Arvind built the organization from the ground up, starting with just seven committed members. Today, under his stewardship, BUASS boasts a growing membership of 48 active volunteers and devotees who contribute to a range of cultural and welfare activities.
The society's mission is twofold: to provide a spiritual home for Ayyappan devotees and to serve mankind through compassionate outreach. With a balanced focus on devotion and service, BUASS regularly conducts religious discourses, spiritual seminars, and community welfare programs. These include free food distribution during Mandala Kala, regular poojas, and knowledge-sharing events that preserve and promote Ayyappan traditions.
Programs of Impact and Excellence
Among the society's standout initiatives is the "Ayyappan Traditions & Rituals" seminar, a landmark event that drew large participants. The seminar was led by the renowned Maha Sasthru Priya Dasan Sastha Vyasar Dr. Aravind Subramanyam, offering devotees deep insights into the heritage and philosophy of Lord Ayyappan worship. The overwhelming response to the seminar underscored the hunger for authentic spiritual learning within the community and validated Arvind’s belief in culturally rooted education.
The society’s regular engagement with the public also includes interfaith exhibitions organized by Penang Harmony Corporation and George Town World Heritage Incorporated, fostering unity and mutual respect in Malaysia’s diverse religious landscape.
Overcoming Challenges Through Unity
The early days of BUASS were not without difficulties. Founded amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization had to navigate restrictions, health risks, and the challenges of building a new community initiative during a time of uncertainty. Despite this, Arvind’s determination and inclusive leadership helped secure support from Penang State Government and local devotees. Through teamwork and persistence, BUASS continued its mission uninterrupted, adapting its activities to serve safely and effectively.
Collaborative Leadership
Arvind has been instrumental in forging partnerships with local and international Ayyappan NGOs, as well as collaborating with government entities such as George Town World Heritage Incorporated and Penang Harmony Corporation. These collaborations have allowed BUASS to expand its reach and credibility while strengthening its network of cultural and religious institutions. This spirit of collaboration ensures that BUASS remains not only a local initiative but also a contributor to the global Ayyappan movement.
A Leader Rooted in Public Values
Arvind holds a Master’s degree in Public Management from Universiti Utara Malaysia, a background that complements his leadership in the nonprofit space. His academic training enables him to navigate the complexities of organizational governance, strategic planning, and community engagement with professionalism and structure.
But what truly sets Arvind apart is not just his qualifications or experience, but his empathetic leadership. He has an eye for unmet needs and a heart committed to action. One such moment came when he witnessed how some devotees struggled to fulfill their Sabarimala pilgrimage due to financial and logistical barriers. This deeply moved him and became a defining motivation for his work. "I hope one day BUASS can help break those barriers and let every devotee reach Sabarimala with little hassle," he shares.
Looking Forward: Vision for BUASS
Arvind’s long-term vision is bold and impactful: to establish better facilities and support systems in Penang for Sabarimala-bound devotees, effectively becoming a bridge between local worshippers and the Sabarimala Temple administration in India. He also envisions a greater role for BUASS in youth engagement, cultural preservation, and interfaith harmony.
His philosophy of service is grounded not just in action, but in sustainability. By cultivating a new generation of spiritually aware and socially responsible leaders, Arvind hopes BUASS will continue to flourish long after his own tenure.
Recognized and Respected
While much of BUASS's work remains rooted in humble service, it has not gone unnoticed. The society’s initiatives have been featured in local Tamil-language newspapers, online news outlets, and cultural forums. In addition, Arvind has been the proud recipient of state awards, including the Pingat Kelakuan Terpuji (2025), Pingat Jasa Kebaktian (2021), and Pingat Jasa Masyarakat (2017), in recognition of his social service and cultural leadership. These honours further affirm his steadfast contributions to the Penang community.
Conclusion: A Growing Leader with a Grounded Heart
In a world where leadership is often measured by influence and ambition, Arvind Poobalan offers a different model: one grounded in faith, humility, and service. Through BUASS, he has created more than a society—he has built a movement of giving, spiritual devotion, and cultural continuity.
As a recipient of the Asia Awards: Asia's Growing Leader, Arvind represents the spirit of modern leadership —forward-thinking yet deeply rooted in tradition; humble in demeanor yet bold in vision. His journey is a reminder that true leadership begins not with a title, but with a calling—and the courage to answer it.
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