SHAH ALAM, Jan 10 — The Selangor government has denied it is unconcerned over the suggested escalator and development in Batu Caves, as recently claimed by Batu Caves temple president Tan Sri Nadarajah.
State executive councillor for human resources and poverty eradication Papparaidu Veraman said the claim is inaccurate, confusing, and doesn’t reflect the state and federal governments’ actual efforts to address the issue.
Papparaidu said Nadarajah’s December 30 statement has caused misunderstandings over the government’s role, including the claim of an agreement between the prime minister, Selangor menteri besar, and state government not to facilitate approvals for the construction of an escalator and other facilities like a multipurpose hall at Batu Caves.
“I, as state exco, have received many calls from the media and public asking for an explanation and confirmation of the claim, as it could potentially compromise the government’s reputation and confuse the people,” Papparaidu said in a statement today.
“Any building approval, including the construction of an escalator in a sensitive area like Batu Caves, is subject to legal procedures, technical planning, and authorities’ assessments, including in terms of public safety, heritage status, environmental (impact), and land use suitability.
“All developments, including the construction of shops and commercial developments, must have planning approvals and legitimate building plans from local authorities,” he added.
He also rejected claims that there is a 1930 court order that can be used to circumvent current approval processes without legitimate legal oversight.
“I have suggested the Batu Caves temple management officially sign up with the Registrar of Societies (ROS) to allow the state government and technical authorities to give them aid and facilitate technical aspects, so the escalator can be built in a systematic and legitimate manner, in line with the agreement in principle between the Selangor menteri besar and Batu Caves temple management on February 4, 2025,” he explained.
Papparaidu said the temple management’s temporary occupation licence (TOL) application was rejected as it was submitted under an individual’s name and did not fulfil application criteria, which was explained in a session with the media at the Selayang Municipal Council (MPS).
“I have said I will obtain and submit documents and further clarification, with the menteri besar’s permission, if need be,” he added.
In a related development, Papparaidu said he received a Letter of Demand on Wednesday from Tetuan ADR & Co, which represents Nadarajah and demands a RM1 million payment for defamation.
“I emphasise that all of my statements are made in an official capacity and are based on facts, public interest, and a responsibility to give accurate explanations to the people, not meant to defame anyone,” Papparaidu said.
He also highlighted the Selangor government’s commitment to work with stakeholders to ensure any development in Batu Caves is done prudently, systematically, and legally.
