PUTRAJAYA, Oct 30 — The Higher Education Ministry (MOHE) has allowed online or hybrid Teaching and Learning (PdP) sessions to be conducted at public higher education institutions from November 5 to 13 in conjunction with the Deepavali celebration on November 8.

In a statement today, MOHE said the arrangement was to enable Hindu students and teaching staff at all public universities, polytechnics and community colleges to return to their hometowns and spend time with their families during the festival.

“However, its implementation is subject to the suitability and requirements of the academic programmes at the respective institutions to ensure that teaching and learning processes run smoothly and academic activities are not disrupted,” the statement said.

It said the initiative reflected MOHE’s concern for the welfare of the higher education community, while also celebrating the cultural and religious diversity that forms the foundation of harmony in Malaysia’s multiracial society.

The ministry also extended its Deepavali greetings to all Hindu students, academic staff, ministry personnel and Malaysians.

“May this Festival of Lights bring happiness, peace and prosperity to everyone,” MOHE said. — Bernama