Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has assured that the relocation of a Hindu temple to facilitate the construction of the Madani Mosque was carried out in an orderly and well-coordinated manner. He emphasized that all parties involved had reached a mutual understanding, ensuring a smooth transition.
Speaking at the mosque’s groundbreaking ceremony, Anwar revealed that he had personally instructed his Cabinet to engage in discussions to find a fair resolution. "From the outset, I made it clear that negotiations must be firm. While we value tolerance, our decision to proceed with the mosque's construction remained unwavering," he stated.
Addressing criticism from certain quarters, Anwar stressed that reaching a balanced solution should not be mistaken for weakness. Instead, he framed it as a reflection of the Madani governance philosophy, which prioritizes peaceful coexistence and inclusivity.
The relocation of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple had sparked debates, with some legal professionals expressing concerns. However, Anwar defended the mosque's necessity, highlighting the congestion in nearby prayer spaces. Few days earlier, Federal Territories Minister Dr. Zaliha Mustafa disclosed that the temple would only be moved 50 meters from its original location.
The land in question was acquired by Jakel Trading Sdn Bhd in 2012, with construction approval granted in 2021. Despite this, the company had postponed the mosque project to ensure the temple's relocation was handled respectfully. Additionally, the firm agreed to bear the relocation costs, further facilitating the resolution.
Anwar lauded the collaborative effort behind the decision, noting that it demonstrated "wisdom, dominance and glory of Islam." He expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, including non-Muslim leaders such as Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo and Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development R. Ramanan, for their role in reaching a consensus.
He also issued a stark reminder about the dangers of racial division, stating, "If everyone wanted to play the hero of their respective race, this country would be destroyed."
The resolution of this matter, Anwar asserted, exemplifies Malaysia’s commitment to religious harmony and inclusive development.
Information Source: FMT
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