The Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple, located across Jakel Mall in Kuala Lumpur’s Jalan Masjid India area, will not be demolished on March 27.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, in a statement this afternoon, said the temple authorities would be given time to relocate to a new site.
Gobind also revealed that he had held several discussions with the temple committee and raised the matter in the Cabinet several times.
“This commitment (to relocate to a new site) was also relayed to the temple committee by Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif when she visited the temple this morning,” said Gobind.
“Concerns arose when it was reported that the site would be cleared to make way for a proposed mosque. The project is undertaken by a private company, which is the registered owner of the land.
“About a month ago, the temple committee approached me regarding this issue, and since then, I have had several discussions with them. Together with Batu MP P. Prabakaran, I have been working closely with the committee to find a fair and amicable resolution.
“I have also raised this matter in Cabinet several times to ensure that all avenues for an amicable solution are explored.”
He added that an alternative piece of land had been identified for the temple’s relocation and discussions were ongoing to secure the best possible outcome for all parties involved.
“I urge all parties to remain calm and continue engaging constructively as we work towards a solution.”
Following her visit to the temple this morning, Maimunah told reporters that “every step that is being, and will be taken, is in line with the principle of freedom of religion as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.”
She added that the temple’s relocation process would be carried out transparently and fairly, involving discussions with stakeholders to ensure its smooth implementation.
