Selangor aims for amicable end to temple issue

SHAH ALAM: Selangor Mentri Besar Amirudin Shari has vowed to find a solution to the issues revolving around the Seafield Sri Maha Mariamman Temple.

The temple, which is more than a century old, is locked in a battle between the management committee and the developer that owns the land it stands on.

The owner wants the land for development while the temple’s management committee and its devotees want the place of worship to remain at its current location.

In a press conference yesterday, Amirudin gave his word that the state will help both the developer and the temple management committee arrive at an amicable solution.

“The Selangor government stands firm and reiterates its commitment in finding a solution within a legal framework and in accordance with the rule of law,” said Amirudin.

He also clarified the state government will not be paying for the land with state funds.

“The Selangor state government has ruled out acquiring the land as it will incur huge financial implications to the taxpayer and set a bad precedent for future cases,” he added.

Amirudin reminded all parties not to resort to activities or comments that may cause unrest.

“The state government cautions the parties involved to remain calm, not to hold any assemblies, refrain from making any form of provocative statement and adhere to orders by the police to maintain peace and public order,” he added.

He said there were several options that were being looked at as a way to settle the issue but declined to say exactly what these were.

“It is still in discussion whether the temple is to be retained like the one in Mid Valley or to relocate, or something else.

There are many options,” Amirudin said, adding that the government wants a win-win solution for all parties.