KUALA LUMPUR: The Prime Minister wants to find a fair and harmonious solution to the ongoing issue surrounding the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple, says Datuk Seri R. Ramanan (pic).
The Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister said that Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had discussed the issue of the Hindu temple’s relocation with him.
“The issue here is that the land belongs to a private entity, but the government is still taking this matter seriously.
“The Prime Minister has discussed this with me and is very concerned about the issue.
“He also wants to find a fair and harmonious solution,” Ramanan said after visiting the temple, Bernama reported.
He reassured the public that the government will not demolish the temple.
“We will be fair to all races in this matter, particularly the Hindu community,” he said.
In response to whether the relocation of the temple had been politicised, Ramanan said if it had been, such actions must cease.
He reiterated that the government has consistently referred to the issue as a “relocation” rather than a “demolition”.
Meanwhile, the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) is playing a facilitating role in ensuring that the relocation of the temple on the private land to a new location can be resolved smoothly.
Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Maimunah Mohd Sharif said as a party entrusted by the government, DBKL has taken proactive steps to help find the best solution for all parties involved.
“DBKL assures that every step that is being and will be taken is in line with the principle of freedom of religion as enshrined in the Federal Constitution,” she told reporters after visiting the temple.
She said the temple’s relocation process would be carried out transparently and fairly, involving discussions with the stakeholders to ensure its smooth implementation.
“DBKL has identified a new suitable spot for the temple where Hindu devotees can continue to carry out their religious activities comfortably and harmoniously,” she said.
Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple chairman K. Barthiban said they are ready to cooperate in discussions with DBKL regarding the relocation process of the house of worship.
