Malaysia is set to witness the rise of its largest Shiva temple, the Shree Gangatharan Shiva Peruman Devasthanam, which is currently under construction in Penang. This monumental project is poised to become a significant spiritual and cultural landmark, reflecting the deep devotion and heritage of the Tamil Hindu community in the country.
The temple, envisioned on an extraordinary scale, will feature nine intricately designed levels, crowned by a majestic rajagopuram—the towering gateway that serves as the hallmark of traditional South Indian temple architecture. The temple will showcase an awe-inspiring sanctum made entirely of granite, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Karpaga Ambigai. Surrounding the sanctum will be 108 Shiva Lingas, enhancing the temple’s divine and powerful spiritual atmosphere.
The Lord Shiva Temple in Butterworth, Penang, was established in 1970 by the late Mr. Goh Poh Chai, who was inspired by a divine vision of Lord Shiva in a dream. Motivated by this spiritual experience, Mr. Goh dedicated a part of his home to create a place of worship, where he personally led prayers, including the annual Maha Shivaratri celebration.
Mr. Goh’s vision was supported by three close associates: Mr. P. Sivakumar, the current chairman of the temple, along with Mr. M. Meiyappan and Mr. J. Ellapan. Together, they played an essential role in the temple’s early growth and operations. After Mr. Goh’s passing in 1987, his wife entrusted the temple to a dedicated committee before relocating to Australia with their family, ensuring that his vision continued. Since then, the temple has been overseen by this devoted team.
In 2002, the temple marked a significant milestone with a grand Kumbabhishegam (consecration) ceremony, reflecting its growth and spiritual importance. In 2005, the temple relocated to its current address at 1955, Jalan Siram, Kampung Siram, Butterworth, Pulau Pinang, to accommodate its expansion needs.
Over the following two decades, the temple committee worked relentlessly to secure a permanent site. Their perseverance was rewarded when the Penang state government, through the Penang Hindu Endowment Board (PHEB) under the leadership of former chairman Professor P. Ramasamy, allocated a land parcel near Taman Bagan.
The committee is now pursuing an ambitious plan to build a grand new temple at this site, ensuring that Lord Shiva’s devotees in Butterworth will have a lasting and magnificent place of worship for future generations. The launch of The Grand Miniature Unveiling & Shiva Thandavam Extravaganza, a fundraising event for the temple’s construction, was held at The Light Hotel in Seberang Jaya, Penang. The temple’s architectural model was revealed during the event.
This event marks the realization of the vision to construct Malaysia’s largest Shiva temple, with an estimated building cost of over RM15 million. The event was presided over by Dato’ Sri R.S. Thanenthiran, the Chairman of the Temple Construction Committee. A devotional music performance by musicians from Tamil Nadu was also featured during the event, drawing over 1,000 devotees and members of the public.
Devotees are warmly encouraged to contribute towards the construction of this temple. Contributions can be made through two methods: online bank transfer or in person.
Bank Transfer Details:
- Account Name: Pertubuhan Penganut Shree Gangatharan Shiva Peruman
- Bank Name: Public Bank
- Account Number: 3232308815
- Swift Code (for international transfers): PBBEMYKL
Qr code to transfer:
Before proceeding with a transaction, please click HERE for further details.
For inquiries or to confirm your donation, kindly share a copy of the transfer slip via WhatsApp to +60124639477 or +60126735211.
Donations can also be made in person by visiting the Sakti Foundation Office:
- Sakti Foundation Office
- Address: Yayasan Sakti, 4988, Tingkat 2, Jalan, Kampung Benggali, 12200 Butterworth, Penang
- Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 09:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Contact: +604-323 4777 | +6012-463 9477
The Shree Gangatharan Shiva Peruman Devasthanam is not just a temple—it is a reflection of the unwavering faith, dedication, and cultural heritage of the Hindu community in Malaysia. From its humble beginnings to its ambitious future, the temple symbolizes unity, resilience, and devotion.
With the collective support of the community, this monumental project will soon stand as a spiritual beacon, offering a majestic space for worship and cultural preservation for generations to come. Devotees and well-wishers are invited to join this historic endeavor, ensuring that this grand vision becomes a reality. Together, we can create a legacy of devotion and spirituality that will inspire for centuries.
Source: Shree Gangatharan Shiva Peruman Devasthanam Facebook / Website
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