GOMBAK, Feb 1 — The state government is open to negotiations, but will take appropriate action against houses of worship found to be in breach of the law.
Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari said the policy is aimed at safeguarding public safety, ensuring smooth development, and upholding the rule of law, without undermining harmony among races and religions.
Since 2008, the state government has implemented an ongoing process to regularise the status of houses of worship, ensuring they operate legally.
He said it is responsible for protecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of race or religion, in line with the Federal Constitution and the principles of the Rukun Negara.
“I am a Muslim, but as a responsible leader, I must ensure not only that mosques and suraus operate properly, but that, as a responsible government, as enshrined in the Rukun Negara — namely the Belief in God — we must ensure that houses of worship, including temples, are also defended and maintained so that their operations are lawful.
“As pointed out earlier by (state executive councillor for human resources and poverty eradication) YB Papparaidu, we cannot allow [structures] on Tenaga Nasional Berhad reserve land, Air Selangor reserve land, or Public Works Department reserve land, because there are utilities there. People should not be angry if we have to take demolition action, as it is contrary to development; however, we remain open to discussion.
“From my experience with a temple in Subang, the issue nearly caused racial tension because certain parties ‘stirred things up’ and took advantage of the situation. But once an agreement was reached with the current landowner, the temple could operate at a more suitable location.
"That is our approach — not ambush tactics, not arrogance. We are open to negotiations and discussions, but we must uphold the rule of law,” Amirudin said during the Selangor-level Thaipusam celebration at the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves last night.
He reiterated his belief that most Selangor residents understand the need to balance freedom of religion with legal compliance for the common good.
“Selangor is a state of many races and religions, living peacefully, harmoniously and comfortably. That is why, since 2008, we have taken steps to implement several changes, including efforts to ensure that houses of worship, such as temples, can operate legally.
“This is an ongoing process, and I thank the Indian community leaders in government who sometimes have to make decisions to demolish structures that are not located on appropriate land.
“It is not an easy action. But in upholding the rule of law and ensuring a responsible government, they are prepared to engage in discussions.
“We are ready to provide sites as set out in current development planning; more areas have been approved, although there are still issues and certain locations to be addressed," Amirudin said.
