‘Differentiate historical heritage temples and the ones that are encroaching’
In supporting Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s call for the rule of law to be upheld in the controversy surrounding “illegal temples”, Kota Kemuning state assemblyman Preakas Sampunathan said that authorities must differentiate temples that are of historical heritage and those that are encroaching the land.
“While it is true that, strictly speaking, occupying land without a current title is impermissible, we must examine the historical context. In many cases, these temples originally operated with consent, permits, or temporary licences.
“Over the decades, as urban development accelerated, land was rezoned, ownership structures changed, and records were lost or altered. As a result, their formal status was eroded through administrative changes, not bad faith.
“Consequently, while some of these temples may lack registering legal rights today, they arguably possess equitable rights born of long-standing presence and original consent. It would therefore be unjust to apply a blanket rule. Each case must be assessed individually, fairly, and with historical sensitivity.
“This is not a failure of communities, never was. It is a challenge inherited by the state.”
Preakas who is also a practising lawyer also highlighted the precedents and best practices of other nations.
Older religious buildings are commonly recognised through heritage listing and regularisation with enforcement on safety, preservation and orderly management.
India applies cut-off dates and principles of non-retro activity. Singapore formally records legacy religious sites, grants long term use status and offers land swaps or compensation when relocation is unavoidable.
Based on that, he has called upon the federal government and the Housing and Local Government to introduce a structured and transparent regularisation framework for legacy religious structures.
The framework shall include the following:
- Recognition based on the era of construction
- Simplified approval and compliance pathways
- Safety, access, and planning alignment moving forward
- The creation of a clear national registry to prevent future disputes.
Yesterday Anwar had called upon the local councils to take action against temples that are encroaching government and private land.
Local and government minister Nga Kor Ming had announced that the government would regulate Hindu temples.
Earlier today, PKR deputy secretary general Sivamalar Genapathy suggested the establishment of a federal centalised non-Muslim places of worship commission.
On another note, Preakas also called upon federal opposition Perikatan Nasional against inflaming hatred and religious sentiments.
“I must also urge the opposition, particularly Perikatan Nasional (PN), not to incite hatred or inflame religious sentiments for political mileage,” said the DAP lawmaker.
“It is deeply concerning to observe PN figures and supporters initiating social media campaigns targeting temples and religious communities.
“PN must recognise that provoking religious sentiment for political mileage endangers national stability. Malaysians deserve mature leaders who act as unity icons, not catalysts for division.”