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THE government has urged all parties to handle concerns over unauthorised places of worship and protests by the Anti-illegal Houses of Worship Movement (Garah) with prudence and a focus on national cohesion, affirming that intercommunal and interfaith harmony must remain a top priority.
Minister of National Unity Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang emphasised that the MADANI government remains steadfast in upholding freedom of religion as guaranteed under Article 3 of the Federal Constitution.
He reiterated that all matters concerning places of worship must be resolved in accordance with the law and under the jurisdiction of local authorities.
“All parties should prioritise dialogue and negotiations with relevant stakeholders to find solutions and avoid hasty actions that could undermine societal harmony,” Aaron said in a statement today.
He further highlighted that “national unity is the country’s most valuable asset and should not be jeopardised by emotion, misunderstanding, or irresponsible narratives circulating publicly, particularly on social media.”
Aaron confirmed that the Ministry of National Unity fully supports the efforts of the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) in implementing a regularisation programme for places of worship built without approval.
The approach will emphasise cooperation, dialogue, and harmonious resolution in line with national unity principles and lawful governance.
The initiative follows remarks by Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, who stated that KPKT, through local authorities, is ready to collaborate with all stakeholders in the regularisation of unauthorised places of worship.
Nga clarified that land matters fall under state government jurisdiction, but KPKT remains open to facilitating resolutions in a spirit of harmony.
He added that every construction of a place of worship must comply with existing laws, including obtaining planning permission from local authorities.
The government stressed that such measures aim to maintain intercommunal trust while ensuring that public spaces are not misused to sow discord or hatred. - February 9, 2026