Former Malaysian Bar president Ambiga Sreenevasan and rights group Lawyers for Liberty (LFL) are set to hold a press conference regarding the impending demolition of a historic Hindu temple to make way for the construction of a mosque.
The Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple, located off Jalan Masjid India, in Kuala Lumpur, is reportedly 130 years old - predating Malaysia’s independence.
According to LFL, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has granted planning permission for a private company to construct a mosque on the temple’s site.
In a press invitation, LFL stated: “The government, through DBKL, has given planning permission for a mosque to be built by a private company on the temple site.”
The press conference, scheduled for 11am tomorrow, will also feature former MP N Surendran, LFL director Zaid Malek, activist Hishamuddin Rais, and representatives from the youth empowerment centre Mandiri.
Speaking to Malaysiakini, Ambiga (above) said she would reveal more details about the matter tomorrow.
“Malaysia has always prided itself on the mutual respect we show each other in religious and cultural matters.
“DBKL and the police have always facilitated the religious functions of all races. Cool and rational heads must prevail as we navigate this issue to arrive at a just solution,” she added.
According to MalaysiaNow, the proposed mosque would be reportedly named “Masjid Madani” and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is expected to officiate the groundbreaking ceremony later this month.
Malaysiakini is contacting the company, DBKL, and the Prime Minister’s Office for comment. - Mkini
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