Government disallows illegal construction of places of worship - PM

PUTRAJAYA - The government will not allow places of worship to be built illegally or in violation of regulations, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. 

He said local authorities are empowered to take action, including clearing places of worship constructed on land to which they have no legal right.

Anwar said Malaysia is governed by the Constitution, and the construction of places of worship is subject to the rule of law.

"Some say Anwar allows all places of worship. I say all are allowed if they comply with the law. Should we permit temples or other places of worship that do not comply with regulations? No, because we adhere to the rule of law.

"If the land belongs to someone else, how can we build a place of worship there? That would amount to seizing another person’s land,” he said when delivering his address at the monthly assembly of the National Unity Ministry here today.

The prime minister said the issue was not directed at any particular religion, but concerned the construction of places of worship on sites without proper authorisation.

"Even though general terms such as temples are used, the core issue is construction on unauthorised land or sites. Under the regulations, whether we like it or not, everyone must comply with the law.

"Mosques are built in accordance with the rules, churches are built in accordance with the rules, and the same applies to other places of worship. What is important is to find solutions, not create conflict," he said.

The prime minister also stressed that all parties should refrain from interfering in the management of religious affairs or touching on inter-communal sensitivities in the country.

He said misunderstandings may continue to arise in a multiracial society, but they would not become a problem if handled prudently and with mutual respect.

"Misunderstandings will inevitably occur to some extent, and that is not the issue. The problem arises when we take the view that only our perspective is right, and that those who differ must be attacked, insulted or vilified," he said.

In a related development, the prime minister also commented on remarks by a former minister who claimed that Hindus were unable to practise their religion in Malaysia and linked deaths in custody to religious discrimination.

Anwar said such allegations should not be allowed as they question the Federal Constitution and have the potential to inflame racial sentiments excessively, thereby undermining national harmony.

He also expressed concern that the views had received support from several opposition members of parliament, despite the issue touching on the constitutional foundations of the country.

"There are limits. Criticism is allowed. But our policy is clear…do not interfere with, insult or demean any religious belief," he said. - BERNAMA