The Malaysian Hindu Sangam is working with 35 religious bodies and authorities to resolve temple issues, including relocations, with strict adherence to religious rituals.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Hindu Sangam is working closely with religious organisations and authorities to address issues involving Hindu temples and shrines.

Its president, T. Ganesan, said the organisation is collaborating with about 35 religious bodies to collectively look into matters concerning Hindu places of worship.

“We are not acting alone,” he said during an appearance on Bernama TV’s Paarvai programme. He emphasised that solutions are sought in accordance with religious practices and proper procedures.

Ganesan said the MHS has engaged with authorities and temple management to resolve specific cases, including those involving temples in Kuala Kubu Bharu and Hulu Selangor.

In situations involving smaller shrines, the approach may include consolidating or relocating them through proper consultation. “This is done through discussions with the relevant authorities and with the consent of the temple management,” he explained.

The organisation has also formed a team of lawyers to study legal avenues and provide guidance on resolving temple-related issues. Ganesan stressed that religious procedures are strictly followed, particularly when relocating idols.

“According to our religious practices, proper rituals must be performed by priests before any relocation of idols is carried out,” he said.

The remarks come as the government continues strengthening governance of non-Islamic houses of worship through inter-agency coordination and dialogue-based approaches.

 The Sun Malaysia