Mr. John Thivy , during his student Carrier at London had opportunity to meet Mohandas Gandhi. He was inspired by the Gandhi’s determination to fight for India’s Independence.
Later On after his return to Malaya, after pursuing Law degree in 1932, he became actively involved in Indian nationalist movements. After attending one of Bose’s rallies in 1943, he joined the INA and subsequently took part in the Burmese Campaigns.
The British imprisoned him after World War Two at Changi Prison for his involvement in anti-colonial activities. He was released after India achieved Independence and subsequently, founded the Malayan Indian Congress, which provided a channel for the local Indians to voice their opinions on public matters.
On 4 August 1946, Thivy became the 1st and founding President of the Malayan Indian Congress (MIC), which represented Indian interests in Malaya. He was helped in the setting up of the party by other notable individuals such as Janaky Athi Nahappan. The MIC was modelled after the Indian National Congress. The party participated in the Malayan Independence movement.
In January 1948, he became the first official appointed by Nehru to represent the Indian Republic in Southeast Asia.
Source :INDIAN INDEPENDENCE MOVEMENT IN EAST ASIA