Selangor ‘open to review’ of land size, heights of worship houses

 Executive councillor V. Pappraidu said the current state government had approved 57 plots for non-Muslim houses of worship while 40 more applications are being processed.

Selangor executive councillor V. Pappraidu said there had been several misconceptions about a review of the state manual on planning guidelines for non-Islamic houses of worship. (Bernama pic)

SHAH ALAM:

The Selangor state government has clarified what it called several misconceptions on a proposed review of the state’s manual on planning guidelines and standards for non-Islamic places of worship.

State executive councillor V. Pappraidu said the state government remains open to reviewing and optimising the existing standards on land area of 0.10ha to 0.20 hectares (10,780 sq ft to 21,500 sq ft) and building heights of 72 feet (21.9 metres).

He said that Selangor had consistently demonstrated its commitment to supporting non-Muslim religious communities, with 481 plots of land approved and issued since 2008 for non-Muslim places of worship.

“Under the current government alone, 57 plots have been approved, while 40 more applications are being processed. By the end of the year, the total is expected to surpass 500 approved sites,” he said.

In his statement, Pappraidu also took on a claim that non-Islamic places of worship would no longer be allowed direct access from major roads, following the introduction of new guidelines requiring a service road.

He said the provision of service roads is intended to facilitate safer vehicle access and parking without disrupting traffic flow on major roads.

“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,” he said.

Papparaidu dismissed allegations that shrines at construction sites would have to be demolished. He said the proposed guideline specifically refers to temporary shrines erected for worship during the building period.

“Once the permanent temple or place of worship is completed, these temporary structures are expected to be relocated accordingly. The policy does not involve the arbitrary demolition of religious shrines,” he said.

Papparaidu, who is co-chairman of the special committee on Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Sikh, and Taoist Affairs, said the state government remains committed to upholding freedom of religion and safeguarding the interests of all religious communities, as well as ensuring planning policies that promote safety, harmony, and sustainable development.

“We urge the public not to be misled by inaccurate information and to refer only to official statements and verified sources regarding this matter. Constructive engagement and dialogue will continue to guide the state government’s efforts in refining these guidelines for the benefit of all Selangorians,” he said.

Papparaidu also said the decision to review and improve the guidelines was approved by the state executive council to ensure that planning regulations remain practical, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of Selangor’s diverse communities. - FMT