Hindu temple at centre of controversy agrees to relocate

 

The proposed relocation of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple to accommodate the construction of a mosque had stirred controversy.

PETALING JAYA: 

The management of the Hindu temple off Jalan Masjid India at the centre of controversy due to its proposed relocation to make way for a mosque has reportedly agreed to move to a nearby site.

Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple committee secretary Kaarthik Gunaseelan said the agreement was reached yesterday following discussions with Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), Malaysiakini reported.

“We thank the minister, elected representatives, and other authorities who helped achieve this resolution.

“The new site is nearby and within the area of Jalan Masjid India and suitable as an alternative site,” he was quoted as saying.

Kaarthik added that the temple committee and DBKL would meet this afternoon to finalise technical matters, with a formal announcement expected soon.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that he would be attending the groundbreaking ceremony for the Madani Mosque, to be built on the disputed site.

The plan to relocate the temple to make way for the mosque had caused a public stir.

Aiman Dazuki, legal head of Jakel Trading Sdn Bhd, said the company had acquired the land in 2012 and received permission in 2021 to begin constructing a mosque there, but had delayed the process “out of respect” for the process of relocating the temple.

He also said it was not possible to build the mosque without relocating the temple as the land was not large enough to accommodate both. He said the firm had agreed to bear the cost of the temple’s relocation. - FMT