PONGGAL celebrations in schools are decided by the Education Ministry, said the National Islamic Development Department (Jakim), after a controversy erupted over a circular on the festival.

Jakim, a government agency overseeing Islamic affairs, said in a statement that it had only given an opinion on Ponggal after being asked to do so by the ministry.

“The decision on the issue is under the respective ministry. Jakim only gave an opinion from the point of view on the involvement of Muslims and did not forbid the celebration,” it said.

 “In fact, Jakim’s shariah panel believes that it is recommended for Muslims to wish their friends and neighbours who celebrate the festival without the intention of acknowledging their religion.

“Muslims also cannot insult the gods of other religions.”

In a circular dated January 13 and issued to all state education department directors ahead of the festival today, the ministry said it is “haram” (forbidden) for Muslims to participate in Ponggal as it is celebrated by Hindus.

The circular was signed by ministry deputy director-general Adzman Talib, who said the decision was based on advice from Jakim.

The circular created an outcry with ministers such as M. Kula Segaran and Gobind Singh Deo, who said Ponggal was not a religious festival.

Hindu groups and academics also issued statements saying Ponggal was not religious in nature but marked the harvest season.  

Before Jakim’s statement today, ministry had said the original circular was to alleviate Muslim parents’ anxiety over the celebration in schools but not to prevent schools from celebrating the event.

“The ministry is aware that schools are places to foster unity among the country’s multiracial pupils.

“The culture and traditions among the various races has to be learnt and appreciated by everyone, including school administrations, teachers and pupils,” the ministry said today. – January 15, 2020.