Temple noise order inquiry begins against officer

The Kajang Municipal Council has begun a domestic inquiry against an officer who directed a Hindu temple to reduce religious activities after 6pm.

Selangor Menteri Besar Abdul Khalid Ibrahim said that, if there is alleged misconduct, an internal probe must be conducted.

"It is important, as an employer, to look after the employees' interests, for we can't simply dismiss or suspend them," he told a press conference after chairing the weekly state executive council meeting today.

"There must be a process and this process is already taking place."

Khalid (left) was commenting on calls for action against the officer who issued the order to the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Bangi Lama on Jan 8, citing a noise complaint.

If the temple committee failed to abide by the order, it could be slapped with a fine of RM1,000 or a jail term of six months, or both, under Section 82(5) of the Local Council Act. The order has since been cancelled.

Several people and groups have urged action to be taken against the unnamed officer, including Puchong MP Gobind Singh Deo.

"It is clearly against the Pakatan Rakyat spirit, and an attempt to again put Pakatan in a bad light." Gobind said on Jan 20.

"It is normal for temples to conduct prayers between 6pm and 9pm, during which time there will also be ringing of bells. This is a fact. It is well-known to us and we respect this."