Strict Adherence to Law Key for Places of Worship Construction, PM Assures
PUTRAJAYA – The Malaysian government will not countenance the illegal construction or development of places of worship that contravene established regulations, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has firmly stated. He underscored that local authorities are vested with the authority to enforce compliance, including the removal of religious structures erected on land for which no legal entitlement exists.
Prime Minister Anwar reiterated that Malaysia operates under the framework of its Constitution, and consequently, the establishment of any place of worship is intrinsically bound by the rule of law. “Some individuals suggest that I permit all places of worship freely. My stance is that all are permitted, provided they adhere to the law. Should we sanction temples or any other places of worship that disregard regulations? Absolutely not, because our commitment is to the rule of law,” he asserted.
He elaborated on this principle, stating, “If the land rightfully belongs to another party, how can we proceed to construct a place of worship there? Such an action would essentially constitute the appropriation of another individual’s property.” These remarks were made during his address at the monthly assembly of the National Unity Ministry.
The Prime Minister clarified that the government’s position is not targeted at any specific religious group. Instead, the core concern revolves around the unauthorised construction of religious sites. “While general terms like ‘temples’ might be used, the fundamental issue remains construction on land or sites lacking proper authorisation. According to the regulations, regardless of personal preference, every individual and entity must comply with the law,” he emphasised.
He further illustrated this point by stating, “Mosques are constructed in accordance with prescribed rules, churches are built following established guidelines, and the same principle applies to all other places of worship. The paramount objective is to seek solutions collaboratively, rather than to foster discord.”
Fostering Unity and Respect in a Multiracial Society
Prime Minister Anwar also issued a strong call for all parties to exercise restraint and avoid any interference in religious affairs or actions that could inadvertently provoke inter-communal sensitivities within the nation. He acknowledged that in a diverse, multiracial society like Malaysia, misunderstandings are an inevitable part of societal dynamics. However, he stressed that these would not escalate into significant problems if handled with prudence and a profound sense of mutual respect.
“A certain degree of misunderstanding is bound to occur, and that in itself is not the central issue. The problem escalates when we adopt an insular perspective, believing that only our viewpoint is correct, and consequently, those who hold differing opinions must be subjected to attack, insult, or defamation,” the Prime Minister explained.
Addressing Allegations and Upholding Constitutional Integrity
In a related development, the Prime Minister addressed recent statements made by a former minister who alleged that Hindus were facing impediments in practising their religion in Malaysia. The former minister also controversially linked custodial deaths to religious discrimination.
Prime Minister Anwar strongly refuted such claims, asserting that they cannot be permitted to stand. He highlighted that these allegations not only question the sanctity of the Federal Constitution but also carry the significant risk of excessively inflaming racial sentiments, thereby posing a direct threat to national harmony.
He expressed his profound concern that these divisive views had garnered support from several opposition Members of Parliament, despite the fact that the issues raised touch upon the very constitutional foundations of the country.
“There are clear boundaries,” the Prime Minister stated emphatically. “Criticism is permissible. However, our policy is unequivocal: refrain from interfering with, insulting, or demeaning any religious belief.” He concluded by stressing the importance of maintaining these principles for the continued stability and unity of Malaysia.
