Minister says Ponggal not ‘religious’ festival, will raise alleged MoE guideline in Cabinet meet
Tuesday, 14 Jan 2020 10:43 PM MYTHindu devotees cook the ‘sarkkarai’ dish over an open fire to celebrate Ponggal, January 15, 2019. ― Picture by Shafwan Zaidon.
The circular, its authenticity yet to be verified, was issued purportedly based on the opinions of the Malaysian Islamic Development Department . “I was born as a Muslim in a traditional Indian Muslim family. Growing up in Penang, which is a multicultural city, allowed me to experience and celebrate those festivals together with my friends. All this does not make me less Muslim at all but it certainly has made me more Malaysian,
He added that the said letter also gives the impression that the Education Ministry takes instructions from Jakim, instead of the acting education minister, who is Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who took over the portfolio after the abrupt resignation of Maszlee Malik. They are however, advised against ridiculing the Hindu religion and its Gods, and to wish their neighbours and friends who celebrate Ponggal. for Muslims to join in the Ponggal celebration, “especially the event where milk rice is cooked”, referring to the sweet rice which Indians cook in a pot, as offering and a symbol of thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest.
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