SEREMBAN: All parties must address the issue of illegal houses of worship wisely and tactfully, says Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister said that the government had set clear guidelines that must be adhered to by all.
"We must handle this matter wisely and tactfully. Even though we know some have not complied with requirements, there are legal and measured steps we can take," he told reporters after the Road To Ramadan programme at Masjid Kariah Pantai on Saturday (Feb 7).
His remarks came ahead of a rally supposed to be held in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday night.
The rally is being held to urge action to be taken against illegally built houses of worship.
Ahmad Zahid said any use of land, whether owned by companies, individuals, or state governments, must obtain proper approval.
"I hope there will be no acts of aggression that could aggravate the situation.
"The government is very concerned about this issue and there are procedures that must be followed by all," he said.
He said the Madani government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had asked him to focus on Islamic and Malay matters.
However, he emphasised that other religions and ethnicities will not be sidelined.
"Harmony, religious and racial diversity must be respected because our country is made up of various communities," he said.
