PETALING JAYA: The Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple on Jalan Masjid India has agreed to move to a nearby site, said temple secretary Kartik Gunaseelan.
Speaking to the media, the temple committee said the decision was reached after discussions with Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) on Monday (March 24).
"We thank the ministers, elected representatives, and authorities who assisted in reaching this resolution. The new site is nearby and within Jalan Masjid India. It is also a good alternative site," Kartik said.
MIC President Tan Sri SA Vigneswaran confirmed that the temple has agreed to be relocated to an alternative site, with costs covered.
"This is the best option," said Vigneswaran when contacted.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he would attend the groundbreaking ceremony of the mosque at Jalan Masjid India on Thursday (March 27).
The legality of the temple at the site was questioned as stakeholders stated the temple had been there for 130 years and had partially made way for redevelopment over the years.
However, discussions on the relocation of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple, situated on land owned by Jakel Group, began a week ago between the company, the temple management, and Kuala Lumpur City Hall.
Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Maimunah Mohd Sharif said City Hall was acting as a facilitator to ensure the relocation process from private land to a new site is handled smoothly.