National Unity Minister backs proposal for expert panel to resolve illegal worship site issues through dialogue and legal compliance.
PUTRAJAYA: The government supports the formation of a national-level committee to comprehensively address the issue of illegal places of worship nationwide.
National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said the proposal, put forward by senior lawyer Mohamed Haniff Khatri Abdulla, should involve experts in religious affairs, local government, land and legal matters.
He stressed that all issues related to the construction of houses of worship must be resolved through dialogue and negotiations involving all stakeholders.
The ministry provides ample room for constructive discussions aimed at achieving fair, harmonious and legally grounded solutions.
Aaron also welcomed the decree of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, who stressed that such issues must comply with the law and should not be politicised.
His Majesty’s decree highlighted that Malaysia is founded on harmony, with its resilience anchored in mutual respect, tolerance and the observance of the rule of law.
The government has emphasised that construction issues must be addressed strictly in accordance with existing legal provisions.
These include the Local Government Act 1976 and the Town and Country Planning Act 1976, through PLANMalaysia.
“His Majesty’s decree serves as an important guide for all parties to respect the law at all times and to resolve any issues through legitimate channels,” Aaron said in a statement.
He added that the responsibility to preserve unity, peace and harmony lies with every citizen regardless of background.
In a Facebook post, Sultan Ibrahim decreed that issues related to temple construction must be addressed through the same legal rules and channels applied to mosques, churches and shrines.
His Majesty said all parties must understand and respect national laws and resolve differences through lawful channels to preserve harmony, tolerance and goodwill.
