Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim empowers local authorities to enforce laws on unauthorised places of worship, stressing strict legal compliance.
PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has warned that the government will no longer allow houses of worship that fail to comply with regulations, and that local councils have been authorised to take action against unauthorised sites.
Speaking at the National Unity’s ministry monthly assembly today, Anwar stressed that enforcement must be strictly in line with the law.
“We will no longer permit anything that does not comply with regulations.
“The relevant enforcement and legal authorities are given permission to act, so that areas which are not legally designated for temples can be cleared, in order to resolve this issue properly,” he said.
The Prime Minister clarified that all places of worship are allowed as long as they follow proper regulations, and acknowledged that the decision may spark controversy.
He also condemned what he described as misleading and exaggerated claims, noting that some individuals, including former ministers, had made irresponsible statements suggesting certain communities could not freely practise their faith in Malaysia.
“Even if some people want to campaign to demolish a temple, that is not your job. This is a country of law.
“If you want to promote Islam, do dawah properly and show good character—set a good example.
“It is not about insulting or attacking anyone. Following regulations is mandatory,” he said.
Anwar warned that some groups portray themselves as defenders of Hinduism, while others seek to demolish unauthorised temples, but law and order must prevail.
“We cannot defend breaking regulations or the law.
“If there are 1,000 temples without legal approval or land permission in the Federal Territory, we cannot defend all of them,” he said.
Anwar also warned against uncontrolled expansion of unauthorised temples.
“What cannot be allowed is uncontrolled expansion. Building anywhere—under trees, in any location—must be stopped
“Even in India or China, such construction is not allowed. Temples must be legal,” he said.
He urged all parties to follow the law and negotiate properly, stressing that enforcement should focus on compliance, not confrontation.
“This explanation becomes the guiding principle. Even former ministers or public figures who make excessive statements must understand that the law applies to everyone,” he said.
