Citizens of the Klang Valley have seen their fair share of development, whether it be a new addition to the countless skyscrapers or the demolition of one of the city’s historical buildings. One might argue, is this the step that we should take at the cost of our heritage?
A Hindu temple dating back to pre-Merdeka days is under threat of demolition to make way for the construction of a mosque, which is to be named under Anwar Ibrahim’s political slogan, “Masjid Madani”. The Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple, which is more than a century old now sits at the heart of Kuala Lumpur, nestled in between tall skyscrapers and buildings located just across Jakel Mall in the busy Jalan Masjid India area.
The approval for the construction of the mosque under the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and government bodies has sparked mass controversy among the community. Despite brewing tensions, it is reported that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is expected to officiate the ceremony later this month. Netizens flood social media to express their worries and suspicions about the government’s move to demolish the temple. Twitter user (@/ash_juggernaut) comments, “Sounds fakey. Masjid Madani? Why demolish a temple to build a mosque over it like there is no other place available? So many questions”.
Reports say that the land on which the temple sits was sold by the government to a private company that also owns a large shopping centre around the area. The temple committee had asked for an alternative plot of land for the Hindu Worshippers to continue their activities around the area, however, the request was unsuccessful.
Another concerned Twitter user comments, “If this message is true, PMX – Anwar Ibrahim, has to answer why demolish a temple that is more than 100 years old?”. The situation highlights Malaysia’s strong need for unity and understanding among religions and races to avoid undermining their religious and cultural beliefs.
Ex-Malaysian Bar president Ambiga Sreenevasan is expected to hold a press conference in response to this issue. For now, we can only wait for a proper explanation on the demolition, but what are your thoughts on this?
Source: Malaysia Now
Alyssa Gabrielle contributed to this article
