Addressing temples built on illegal land requires balanced policies, state cooperation and calm discussion, says community safety advocate Lee Lam Thye.
KUALA LUMPUR: Ensuring legal land acquisition for places of worship would help preserve religious harmony and facilitate respect for the rule of law, said Alliance for A Safe Community chairman and founder Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
He told theSun that the existence of Hindu temples built without proper legal status has been a longstanding issue.
“Some of the temples were originally built on rubber estates and sanctioned by the estate owners. The devotees found themselves in a limbo after the estates were sold.
“Others have constructed temples on land without proper legal status, but the owners of the land or the authorities turned a blind eye for decades.
“If necessary, we should amend the National Land Code or state-level planning guidelines as a prerequisite for any title transfer of former estate land,” Lee said, adding that the issue is rooted in socio-economic realities.
He added that its resolution requires a balanced and thoughtful approach to arrive at a fair and sustainable solution.
“Given the religious significance of the temples, addressing the issue demands calm, rational discourse.
“Efforts to resolve it should avoid inflaming sentiments and ensure that all stakeholders, including temple authorities and government bodies, collaborate respectfully.
“One reason for the construction of the temples was the rising property prices in urban centres.”
Lee added that temple authorities in affected states should be encouraged to formally apply for the allocation of land.
He said since land management is a state matter, state governments are best positioned to consider such requests and designate appropriate plots for religious purposes.
He also said in regions governed by the Federal Territory Ministry, temple authorities should submit applications directly to the ministry for consideration of official land allocation for religious establishments.
“The issue of temples on illegal land is less prevalent in Sabah and Sarawak, where state governments have established special budgets for non-Muslim religious affairs.
“This proactive approach ensures that temple authorities could obtain legal land more easily, serving as a potential model for other states.
“State governments and relevant ministries are encouraged to engage with temple authorities and develop clear procedures for land allocation, drawing inspiration from the practices in Sabah and Sarawak.
“Through cooperative and calm dialogue, a solution could be found that honours both religious tradition and legal requirements.”
The Sun Malaysia
