KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS) has suspended the management committee of Salak Tinggi’s Sri Mariamman Temple, following allegations that a priest molested a 27‑year‑old model during a private blessing ritual.
The decision responds to mounting public concern after local actress and TV host Lishalliny Kanaran, Miss Grand Malaysia 2021, took to Instagram alleging she was assaulted by a temple priest during a prayer session earlier this month.
MHS president Datuk Ganesan Thangavelu confirmed that the existing temple committee has been relieved of duties while a new management team will be appointed.
“This incident has indirectly brought a bad name to Hindu temples in Malaysia and raises serious concerns about the safety of women in our places of worship,” he told Scoop.
Ganesan emphasised that MHS unequivocally condemns the alleged misconduct and is taking active steps to restore public trust.
“We do not condone such actions. Temples are sacred spaces and must remain safe for all devotees. All temple committees must take full responsibility in selecting and supervising their priests,” he said.
He further stated that all rituals should be conducted transparently and not in private rooms or priests' quarters.
“We urge all temple managements nationwide to implement stricter oversight and ensure the sanctity of temple activities. Immoral behaviour, whether by priests, committee members, or devotees, has no place in our holy sites,” he stressed.
Ganesan also reminded devotees to observe proper conduct, including appropriate dress and behaviour, when visiting temples.
While MHS does not hold regulatory authority, it serves in an advisory capacity and regularly engages temple committees on governance and ethical standards.
Its directive for the committee to step down, though not legally binding, carries significant influence given MHS’s standing within the Hindu community—and the fact that Sri Mariamman Temple Salak Tinggi is a registered member expected to comply with its rules.
“In some temples, priests are given unchecked control—not only over religious duties but also administrative functions. This must stop. No temple should be entirely run by its priest,” he added.
Lishalliny alleges that the suspect offered to bless her by tying a protective string before guiding her to his office.
Once inside, he allegedly splashed what he described as holy water on her and then touched her inappropriately.
She filed a police report on July 4, and the priest had already fled the premises by the time she alerted the temple committee.
Sepang district police chief ACP Norhizam Bahaman confirmed to Scoop that the case is being investigated under Section 354 of the Penal Code for assault or use of criminal force with intent to outrage modesty.
The suspect, an Indian national, was temporarily serving as a priest at the temple while the regular priest was abroad.
Police have seized his passport and confirmed he remains in Malaysia. Statements have been recorded from nine individuals, including temple committee members, to aid the investigation.
If convicted, the suspect could face up to ten years’ imprisonment, a fine, whipping, or any two of these penalties. – July 12, 2025
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