25 December 1933- 16 November 2022
Mr. T.M. Varughese passed away on November 16th, 2022 at the age of 88.
He was, happily married to his wife Susan Verghese, a father to Mathew & Alice, their spouses, Chechamma and Philip and two lovely granddaughters Sabina and Jasmine.
He studied law at Lincolns Inn was admitted to the English Bar in 1972 and subsequently to the Malaysian bar in 1973 got his law degree at the age of 39.
He started practicing law at MEF (Malaysia Employers Federation) in 1973. After ten (10) years at MEF, he ventured into his own practice, T. M. Varughese & Co., for a shade under 50 years till his passing, specializing in Labour/ Industrial law and developed a specialty in ‘Constructive Dismissal’. He enjoyed the readings of The Late Justice Eusoffe Abdoolcader and had on occasion, ‘been schooled’ by him when in his courtroom. He initially represented companies, namely Behn Mayer, Maybank, UEM, Prasarna, amongst many others that are too long to be listed here. In the last few years, he began representing employees occasionally, which I think was his way of giving back, that was tied to his early work years, at Socfin (the equivalent of a Sime Darby in the 60’s) and setting up the first Labour Union there, much to the chagrin of management. The Thomas Kuruvilla and MDEC case in 2019 propelled his name to a wider demographic, more than he wanted or expected as he was in process of ‘retiring’. At least, that’s what he always told family members.
He was a man who lived a full life, worked hard at a profession he loved, something he didn’t consider ‘work’ because it was really his hobby, was trustworthy and reliable. He enjoyed travelling, his family and connecting with people from different walks of life. Happiness is something we all strive for in our life and I would like to think this village boy was able to attain his happiness.
In conclusion, I am reminded by what Abraham Lincoln said, “It is not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years”.
T.M.Varughese’s life was well lived and abundantly blessed. Loved by his family, friends and admired by many, I am sure he will be missed at the Bar.
Written By,
Mathew Verghese (son)
It is with great sadness that we record that T M Varughese, who was the sole proprietor of T M Varughese & Co. in Kuala Lumpur, passed away on 16 Nov 2022.
T M Varughese was admitted as an advocate and solicitor of the High Court of Malaya in 1973. He was one of the most senior Members of the Malaysian Bar for the past several years.
The Malaysian Bar extends its heartfelt condolences and sympathies to his family members and loved ones.