Kuala Lumpur: Members of the Cabinet today took the opportunity to extend their Pongal greetings to the Tamil community in the country.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu expressed that Pongal symbolizes gratitude for the harvest, family unity, harmony, and togetherness. It serves as a reminder of the importance of appreciating nature’s blessings and recognizing the tireless efforts of farmers, who form the backbone of the nation.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said also extended her wishes for a Happy Pongal to all Hindus in Malaysia celebrating the festival. She emphasized the joy and happiness that this year’s celebration brings to those celebrating within Malaysia’s harmonious multiracial and multicultural environment.

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing also offered his Pongal greetings to the Tamil community, praying for a prosperous and peaceful life for all. He highlighted the festival as a symbol of unity in the culturally rich and diverse country of Malaysia.

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek emphasized that diversity remains Malaysia’s most valuable asset and wished the Tamil community a Happy New Year and a joyful Pongal celebration.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, in a Facebook post, noted that Pongal is particularly meaningful for Tamils who celebrate the new year and the blessings of an abundant harvest. He and his team extended their best wishes for a Happy New Year and Thaipongal Day to those celebrating, both in Malaysia and around the world.

Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh also shared her Pongal greetings in a Facebook poster today. Pongal is a Hindu harvest festival celebrated by Tamils worldwide, including in Malaysia, signifying gratitude to the sun (Surya) and earth (Bhoomi) gods for a bountiful harvest and prosperity.