Demolition push wrong, but even India controls where temples built - PM

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim this morning put his foot down on the ongoing dispute over illegal houses of worship, stressing that everything must follow the rule of law.

Speaking in Putrajaya, he strongly criticised both sides - the individuals who try to take matters into their own hands and those who justify the construction of houses of worship in violation of the law.

Anwar said that while the Federal Constitution recognises the right to practise religion, it does not mean the government can allow houses of worship to be built not in accordance with the law.

"We cannot allow the mushrooming (of houses of worship) being built just anywhere, under trees... everywhere.

“This practice must stop. I have asked, in India, and for the Chinese, in China, such practice is not allowed.

"India does not allow this, except for temples that are built legally. So let's learn from this," the prime minister said in his speech at the National Unity Ministry monthly assembly.

He said local councils have been ordered to demolish any houses of worship that were built illegally.

Anwar's remarks were made in the backdrop of the authorities' crackdown on a banned rally on Feb 7, which saw close to 20 individuals arrested for trying to participate in a rally against allegedly illegal houses of worship.

Independent preacher Zamri Vinoth coordinated the demonstration, which coincided with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic visit to Malaysia over the weekend, where he met Anwar.

‘Don’t fan the fire’

In his speech, Anwar said that while the policy might not be popular, it was necessary because the country had to follow the rule of law.

For temples that are claimed to have existed for hundreds of years, the prime minister said their operators can file an appeal for consideration.

"However, having existed below a tree cannot be used as an excuse to say that (the appeal) must be approved," Anwar said.

Adding further, the prime minister also reprimanded certain individuals who have been campaigning against alleged illegal temples and planning to demolish them.

"I’m not defending the other group (supporters of allegedly illegal temples).

"But even if they are in the wrong, you still have to follow the law. Do not fan the fire.

"There is nothing good that will come out of this. It would even curtail the development of dakwah and understanding of Islam," Anwar said.

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