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THE management of issues related to the governance of houses of worship in Malaysia must be carried out in accordance with existing legal frameworks and the principle of the rule of law, in line with the Federal Constitution and the spirit of Malaysia MADANI, the Ministry of National Unity said today.
In a statement, the ministry said matters concerning the construction, renovation and regulatory compliance of houses of worship fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Housing and Local Government through relevant legal provisions.
“Accordingly, it is emphasised that any issues relating to houses of worship must be handled prudently, based on facts and grounded in the law, without dragging in racial or religious sentiments that could jeopardise societal harmony,” the statement said.
The ministry highlighted the Local Government Act 1976, which empowers local authorities to regulate building structures, hygiene standards and to ensure that no house of worship is constructed without proper approval within their administrative areas.
It also noted that the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 applies in regulating technical aspects of construction and the structural safety of houses of worship, in order to safeguard public safety.
In addition, the Town and Country Planning Act 1976 is implemented through PLANMalaysia to guide zoning plans and the designation of specific sites for houses of worship under local development plans.
The ministry said it remains committed to playing its role as a facilitator in strengthening interfaith understanding, dialogue and harmony, while respecting the jurisdiction of relevant agencies and decisions made by authorities in accordance with the law.
“Therefore, all parties are urged to respect legal processes, avoid speculation and uphold the spirit of mutual respect in order to preserve national unity and the country’s stability,” the statement said. - February 7, 2026
