A Selangor executive councillor has sought to allay concerns over proposed changes to guidelines governing non-Islamic places of worship, saying several claims circulating publicly are inaccurate.
In a statement today, Banting assemblyperson Papparaidu Veraman said the state government approved a review of the Selangor State Manual on Guidelines and Standards for Community Facilities Planning.
This is to ensure the regulations are practical, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of the state’s diverse communities.
Papparaidu, who is co-chair of the special committee on Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Sikh, and Taoist Affairs of Selangor (Limas), said the state consistently supported non-Islamic communities.
He noted that since 2008, the Harapan-led government had approved and issued 481 plots of land for non-Islamic religious purposes.
“Under the current administration alone, 57 plots have been approved, while another 40 applications are currently being processed. By the end of the year, the cumulative total is expected to surpass 500 approved sites,” he said.
Addressing concerns over access requirements, Papparaidu said claims that non-Islamic places of worship would no longer be allowed direct access from major roads were inaccurate.
“The requirement for service roads is based solely on traffic management and public safety considerations. Religious premises located along major roads often attract large crowds during festivals and special occasions, which may result in traffic congestion and safety risks.
“The provision of service roads is intended to facilitate safer vehicle access and parking without disrupting traffic flow on major roads,” he said.
Temporary shrines and building height limit
Papparaidu also denied allegations that shrines at construction sites would be demolished under the guidelines.
According to him, the provision applies only to temporary shrines erected in construction sites during the development period, which are expected to be relocated once a permanent temple or place of worship is completed.
“The policy does not involve the arbitrary demolition of religious shrines,” he said.
Regarding concerns over restrictions on building height and land area, Papparaidu said the existing guideline recommends a land area between 0.25 and 0.5 acres.
“Taking into account building setbacks and infrastructure requirements, a recommended building height of up to 72 feet, or approximately six storeys, was proposed as a practical planning measure.
“Nevertheless, the state government remains open to reviewing and further optimising these requirements where appropriate,” he added.
Papparaidu said the state government is committed to upholding freedom of religion, safeguarding the interests of all, and ensuring policies promote harmony, safety, and sustainable development.
He urged the public to consult official statements and verified sources on the matter, adding that constructive engagement would continue to guide efforts to refine the guidelines.
Hindu group urges withdrawal of guidelines
Yesterday, the Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS) urged the Selangor government to withdraw several provisions in the guidelines that it claimed may conflict with constitutional guarantees of equality and religious freedom.
Among the concerns raised were restrictions on the height of non-Muslim houses of worship, limits on direct access to main roads, smaller land allocations, and differing planning requirements based on religion.
The guidelines, which have since been paused pending further review, were approved during a state exco meeting in November 2025.
On May 23, the provisions came under the public limelight after Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung raised concerns over clauses banning non-Muslim houses of worship in commercial zones.
Following criticism, the Selangor government clarified that the guidelines would apply only to future developments and would not affect existing commercial areas. - Mkini
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.