Kuala Lampur, Jan. 15 -- The Education Ministry said its circular describing Muslim participation in Ponggal festivities as "haram (forbidden)" was not intended to prevent the celebration of the Indian harvest festival in schools.

The ministry went on to assert today that it encouraged participation in all multicultural events to foster tolerance, understanding and mutual respect among the country's races.

It then appeared to shift responsibility for the letter's content to the federal government's religious authority.

"Regarding the ministry circular dated January 13, this circular was issued to lessen Muslim parents' concerns about their children's involvement in the celebration.

"The circular's contents took into account the positi...