KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 5 — The National Unity Ministry has emphasised that matters relating to the management of houses of worship and non-Muslim religious affairs fall under the jurisdiction of state governments.
National Unity Minister Datuk Seri Aaron Ago Dagang said state governments hold authority over religious affairs and land matters, as outlined in the Ninth Schedule of the Federal Constitution (State List).
“Any issues involving land use or the management of places of worship should be addressed in line with state laws, and through dialogue and community cooperation,” he said during Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat today.
He was responding to Ganabatirau Veraman (Harapan-Klang) on proposals for a mechanism or national body to oversee non-Muslim religious affairs and places of worship, following reports of temples built without permission on private land.
Aaron stressed that the government guarantees religious freedom while upholding the rule of law, including land management and development under the relevant authorities.
He said that while land matters are under state jurisdiction, the ministry serves as a facilitator to ensure religious issues are handled fairly and in line with the Federal Constitution and Rukun Negara.
According to Aaron, the ministry has set up several committees, including the National Unity Advisory Council (MPPN), the Interfaith Harmony Committee (HARMONI), and the Unity Issues Management Committee (JPIC).
“All state governments have set up special committees to oversee non-Muslim religious affairs, including Sarawak’s Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), Penang’s Non-Muslim Places of Worship Coordination Committee, Selangor’s Special Religious Committee for Buddhists, Christians, Hindus and Sikhs, and similar committees in the Federal Territories and other states,” he said.
Aaron added that at the community level, 531 pro bono mediators operate across nine Community Mediation Centres to resolve conflicts without resorting to court litigation.
On religious extremism, he warned that the government would not tolerate anyone using religion to spread hatred, incite division, or stir racial and religious tension.
He said his ministry backs the police and the Attorney-General’s Chambers in identifying and prosecuting offenders under the Sedition Act 1948, the Penal Code, and the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
“Therefore, the public is advised not to use religion as a tool for conflict and to avoid spreading unverified information,” Aaron added.
