GEORGE TOWN: The state will seek a peaceful solution to the issue involving a Hindu temple in Jalan Kulim near the Bukit Mertajam Hospital, including the possibility of relocation.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state would explore various avenues to resolve the matter with the parties involved.
"Penang is fortunate that cases involving non-Islamic houses of worship built without approval were relatively rare.
“There are such cases, and we will always look for a peaceful solution and explore various options,” he said when commenting on the issue today.
He noted that such cases fall under the category of Rumah Ibadat Bukan Islam (Ribi), referring to non-Muslim places of worship.
Chow added that the state has about 30 plots of land in Ampang Jajar on the mainland for Ribi purposes.
"We will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure that no places of worship are built illegally across the state.
“At the same time, enforcement is necessary to ensure that regulations are followed,” he said.
On Saturday, police managed to avert a planned protest near Bukit Mertajam Hospital after holding discussions with all parties involved over the issue of unregulated Hindu shrines.
