Controversy Surrounds Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple’s Future
Background
The 130-year-old Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple in Kuala Lumpur is at the center of a controversy as the current landowner, Jakel Trading Sdn Bhd, proposes to build a mosque on the site.
Relocation of the Temple
According to Batu MP P Prabakaran, the temple was relocated to its current site in 2008 at the request of the government, specifically Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), due to development projects planned by DBKL at the temple’s previous site.
False Claims
Prabakaran has also denied false claims made about the temple, including that it was built by devotees at the current site off Jalan Masjid India even though the land did not belong to them.
Application to Convert Title
In 2012, the temple applied to convert the title to that of land reserved for a non-Muslim house of worship, but this application failed. DBKL later sold Lot 328 to developers in 2014.
Current Situation
Jakel Trading’s legal head, Aiman Dazuki, stated that the company acquired the land in 2012 and received permission in 2021 to begin constructing a mosque there, but has delayed the process. Aiman emphasized that it is not possible to build the mosque without relocating the temple as the plot of land (around 12,000 sq ft) is not large enough. The firm has agreed to pay for the cost of the temple’s relocation.
Government’s Stance
DBKL has identified a new site for the temple and has promised not to demolish the temple until it is relocated. The government is urging all parties to give room to hold talks with the temple committee and landowner to resolve the matter amicably.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple’s future highlights the importance of understanding the complex issues surrounding the temple’s relocation and the construction of the proposed mosque. It is crucial for all parties involved to work together to find a solution that respects the temple’s history and heritage while also accommodating the needs of the community.
FAQs
Q: Why was the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple relocated in 2008?
A: The temple was relocated at the request of the government due to development projects planned by DBKL at the temple’s previous site.
Q: Who is the current landowner of the temple site?
A: Jakel Trading Sdn Bhd acquired the land in 2012 and received permission in 2021 to begin constructing a mosque there.
Q: Why is the temple’s relocation necessary for the construction of the mosque?
A: The plot of land (around 12,000 sq ft) is not large enough to accommodate both the temple and the mosque, making relocation necessary.
Q: What is the government’s stance on the issue?
A: The government is urging all parties to give room to hold talks with the temple committee and landowner to resolve the matter amicably, and has identified a new site for the temple.