Controversial Temple Relocation Plan Reaches Resolution
Background
The proposed relocation of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple to accommodate the construction of a mosque had stirred controversy. The temple, located off Jalan Masjid India, was at the center of the controversy due to its proposed relocation to make way for a mosque.
Agreement Reached
Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple committee secretary Kaarthik Gunaseelan announced that the agreement was reached yesterday following discussions with Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL). According to Gunaseelan, the new site is nearby and within the area of Jalan Masjid India and suitable as an alternative site.
"The new site is nearby and within the area of Jalan Masjid India and suitable as an alternative site," Gunaseelan was quoted as saying.
Technical Details to be Finalized
Gunaseelan added that the temple committee and DBKL would meet this afternoon to finalize technical matters, with a formal announcement expected soon.
Prime Minister’s Involvement
Earlier today, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that he would be attending the groundbreaking ceremony for the Madani Mosque, to be built on the disputed site.
Background on the Mosque Construction
Aiman Dazuki, legal head of Jakel Trading Sdn Bhd, explained that the company had acquired the land in 2012 and received permission in 2021 to begin constructing a mosque there. However, the company had delayed the process "out of respect" for the process of relocating the temple. Dazuki also emphasized that it was not possible to build the mosque without relocating the temple as the land was not large enough to accommodate both. He stated that the firm had agreed to bear the cost of the temple’s relocation.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the proposed relocation of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple has reached a resolution, with the temple committee agreeing to move to a nearby site. The agreement was reached after discussions with Kuala Lumpur City Hall and the Prime Minister’s involvement in the groundbreaking ceremony for the Madani Mosque.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the new location of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple?
The new location is nearby and within the area of Jalan Masjid India. - Who will bear the cost of the temple’s relocation?
Jakel Trading Sdn Bhd, the company behind the mosque construction, has agreed to bear the cost of the temple’s relocation. - Why was the temple relocation necessary?
The temple relocation was necessary to make way for the construction of the Madani Mosque, which would not be possible on the same site due to the land’s limited size.