KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 14 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today urged Malaysians to uphold mutual understanding and respect as a foundation for national harmony and unity.
In his Ponggal greeting to the Tamil community, he said that despite differences in views, backgrounds, or beliefs, the spirit of togetherness must continue to be strengthened to build a peaceful and prosperous nation.
“I hope the Ponggal celebrations are observed with joy, harmony and meaningful moments with family and loved ones. The festival also reminds us of the values of gratitude, togetherness, and mutual respect,” he said in a Facebook post today.
He added that Ponggal, a Tamil harvest festival, not only marks gratitude for abundant harvests, but also signals the start of the Thai month in the Tamil calendar.
The four-day celebration starts with Bhogi, followed by Thai Ponggal (offering sweet rice to the Sun God), Maattu Pongal (honouring livestock), and Kaanum Pongal (family reunions).
