KUALA LUMPUR: The Pongal festival not only celebrates the Indian community’s gratitude for a bountiful harvest but also underscores cultural diversity as a cornerstone of national unity, National Unity Minister, Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, said.
In his message in conjunction with tomorrow’s harvest festival, he said Malaysia’s multi-ethnic harvest celebrations highlighted the country’s uniqueness in understanding, respecting and cherishing diversity as the foundation of national unity.
Aaron said the country’s cultural diversity and festivals were among the key strengths in nation-building.
“Thai Pongal is a harvest thanksgiving festival, observed in conjunction with the harvest season, symbolising appreciation for nature, the earth’s bounty and the hard work of farmers. ‘Pongal’ means ‘overflowing’, signifying prosperity, abundance and well-being shared together.
“In conjunction with the arrival of the Thai month, celebrated by the Indian community as a symbol of new beginnings, I wish everyone Pongal Vaalthukal (Happy Pongal),” he said in a Facebook post.
Aaron also expressed hope that the Thai Pongal celebration would usher in happiness and prosperity while reinforcing the spirit of unity in diversity for a harmonious and prosperous Malaysia.
Pongal marks the beginning of the month of ‘Thai’ in the Tamil calendar (Thiruvalluvar Year) and is celebrated by preparing sweet rice for family and friends as a gesture of gratitude for a bountiful harvest. – BERNAMA
