PETALING JAYA: City council officers have classified the church in Taman Medan at the centre of the “cross protest” as unlicensed as it has not submitted a written application to operate as a place of worship.
It was also revealed that the church at Metro Square PJS2B/3 had no permit to put up a cross on its building.
PJ City Council (MBPJ) public relations officer Zainun Zakaria (pic) said a three-hour licensing data check has revealed that the shoplot used as a church “does not have a license to operate as a place of worship”.
On Sunday a group of 50 residents gathered outside the church to protest against a cross displayed on the building, claiming that it challenged Islam.
The group demanded the church take down the cross. It was removed at around 2pm on the same day.
Zainun said the church could make a written application for a licence.
“Shoplots that are converted into places of worship or meditation centres must comply to Act 133 Section 70(12) and a written application with the activities described must be submitted for approval. We need these compliance as to ensure safety of the people using the building,” she said.
She added that all places of worship intending to display a logo or symbol on the building must comply with the council’s permit.
“Be it a lotus, trident or a cross, a council permit is needed,” said Zainun.
MBPJ officers went to the shoplot on Monday to meet with church representatives however, no one was around at the time.
