PETALING JAYA: The relocation site for Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple on Jalan Masjid India will be equivalent in size to the existing temple, says Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) said that the new site identified for the relocation was near the original location, following discussions with various parties, including the temple representatives.
“The development of this new site is subject to existing development regulations.
“The government also reiterates its assurance that no demolition will be carried out on the existing temple structure.
“The temple will continue to operate as usual until the relocation process is fully completed in a harmonious manner,” she said in a statement Tuesday (March 25).
The new site covers an area of 371.6sqm and is part of Lot PT 95, Section 40, Mukim Bandar Kuala Lumpur, she said.
This follows reports earlier that the management of the Hindu temple had agreed to move to a nearby site along Jalan Masjid India.
Dr Zaliha added that this issue should not be considered a precedent for other places of worship, and was specific to this case.
“All new places of worship must comply with established guidelines and regulations to ensure public harmony and order in the Federal Territory.
“The government urges all parties, including leaders and the community, not to manipulate this issue by playing on racial and religious sentiments.
“This polemic should be put to rest immediately,” she said.
Dr Zaliha added that the government remained committed to respecting the rights and beliefs of all religious communities while ensuring that every decision made is fair, inclusive, and prioritises the collective interest.
“The government reaffirms its commitment to upholding the principle of religious freedom, as guaranteed by the Federal Constitution, while ensuring that public interests and the rule of law are preserved.
“Every decision made is based on the spirit of goodwill and the harmony of a multicultural society,” she said.
The legality of the temple at the site had come into question as stakeholders said 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.
