GOMBAK, Feb 1 — A total of 54 temples across eight districts in Selangor received contributions amounting to RM579,000 through the Special Committee for Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Sikh and Taoist Affairs (LIMAS).
The symbolic handover of the first phase of LIMAS contributions was officiated by Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari, in conjunction with the Selangor-level Thaipusam celebration at the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves last night.
He said the state government is committed to assisting all houses of worship without marginalising any community, in line with the principles of harmony and freedom of religion.
In this regard, the LIMAS allocation for non-Muslim houses of worship has been increased to RM8 million in 2026, compared with RM6 million in the previous year.
“As I emphasised in my New Year address, this state belongs to all its people. As a government, we are responsible to everyone. If Muslims require allocations for religious schools and mosques, we provide them.
“The same applies to houses of worship of other religions. When support is needed, the government will assist. That is why the LIMAS allocation has been increased by RM2 million in 2026,” Amirudin said.
Meanwhile, state executive councillor for human resources and poverty eradication Papparaidu Veraman said the contribution is expected to help temple management provide more comfortable, safe and well-organised facilities, as well as to implement beneficial programmes for devotees.
He added that the second phase of the contribution handover will be held in conjunction with the Chitirai Puthandu celebration, as part of the state government’s efforts to ensure that the needs of non-Muslim communities continue to be addressed.
The 2026 Selangor Budget has allocated RM8 million through LIMAS to rebuild and refurbish ageing houses of worship and implement educational and social unity programmes.
Earlier, more than 2.5 million visitors were expected to attend Batu Caves in conjunction with this year’s Thaipusam celebration, which falls on February 1.
