Mahima Supports PM’s Call For Compliance In Building Places of Worship

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 12 (Bernama) -- The Malaysia Council of Hindu Temples and Hindu Associations (Mahima) has expressed support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent directive that the government will not allow the construction of places of worship without proper approval or compliance with regulations.

Mahima president Datuk N. Sivakumar said Anwar’s statement should not be viewed as controversial, but rather as a necessary step towards reorganising and safeguarding existing temples and other houses of worship nationwide.

He said many temples, particularly those located in estates, were believed to have been built during the British colonial period, and stressed that proper documentation must now be compiled to protect their original land rights.

“We must see this positively. This effort will help ensure temples are properly structured and protected.

“Temple committees should prepare complete documents and submit them to the authorities to safeguard their status. Legalisation is the best way forward, and the Prime Minister’s advice comes at the right time,” he told Bernama TV today.

Sivakumar added that the government’s move would also facilitate the creation of comprehensive records and data on places of worship nationwide, helping to improve coordination and long-term management.

At the same time, he proposed the formation of a special task force under the MADANI government to better manage and streamline matters related to places of worship, amid growing public confusion over land ownership and relocation issues.

Sivakumar said Mahima is prepared to assist temple administrations that have received relocation notices by providing guidance and solutions on land and legal matters.

“We are ready to work with the authorities and affected temple committees to ensure fair solutions and proper management,” he said.

Anwar yesterday emphasised that no party has the right to take matters into their own hands outside the framework of the law in issues related to houses of worship. 

He said Malaysia is founded on the rule of law and all parties must respect this principle, adding that compliance with existing laws and regulations on the construction of places of worship and other sensitive matters is essential to maintain harmony and stability in the country.

— BERNAMA