The Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple committee has reached an agreement with Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to relocate the temple to a nearby location. This decision marks a significant development in discussions surrounding the temple’s future and ensures its continued presence in the city.
Temple committee secretary Karthik Gunaseelan announced that an agreement was reached yesterday after discussions with Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).
Speaking to Malaysiakini, Karthik stated, “We express our gratitude to the minister, elected representatives, and relevant authorities for their efforts in facilitating this resolution. The new location is close by, within the Jalan Masjid India area, and serves as a suitable alternative site for the temple.”
Karthik stated that the temple committee and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will hold a meeting this afternoon to finalize technical details, with an official announcement expected soon after. Earlier, Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that the temple was constructed without proper authorization and must be relocated in accordance with the law while ensuring the process is handled with respect.
He noted that other places of worship, including mosques, have been removed for legal violations. However, in this case, the government is adopting a more tolerant approach. PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari also supported the prime minister’s stance, emphasizing that the issue is not about religion but strictly a legal matter.
The temple currently stands on a plot of land at Jalan Munshi Abdullah, near Jalan Masjid India, and is believed to have been established in 1893—long before the formation of DBKL and its predecessor agency. he area is well known for its vibrant textile shops, attracting members of the Indian community, while the nearby Masjid India mosque is a popular place of worship for Muslims.
Following Malaysia’s independence, the land came under DBKL’s ownership until it was sold to the textile company Jakel Group in 2014. Recently, Jakel announced plans to construct a mosque on the site, to be named the Madani Mosque. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is set to officiate the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, March 27.
Source: Malaysia Kini
