SHAH ALAM, Feb 10 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged all state governments, including those led by the opposition, to comply with established guidelines and regulations related to the construction of places of worship.
He said political differences must be set aside to ensure that issues surrounding the development of places of worship are handled in an orderly manner and in line with clear federal policies.
“On the matter of places of worship, temples and the like, I have made firm decisions at the federal level and will consult all state governments, including opposition-led states.
“Sometimes there is a lot of noise about political struggle, yet there are more illegal temples in their states. Let us put political differences aside because the federal leadership has decided that this country must continue to move forward with clear policies,” he said.
Anwar was speaking at the opening of the Selangor International Literary and Cultural Dialogue (DASA) 2026 here last night. Also present was Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.
He said it took more than two years to finalise the regulations so that all parties, regardless of race or religion, could adhere to them.
“We must accept the reality that Malaysia is a country governed by the rule of law, and all matters must follow regulations. Imagine that after decades of grappling with issues involving temples and pig farming, there was still no definitive solution.
“The issue of pig farming was resolved properly by Amirudin. Such firmness is important to ensure the country’s sustainability as a sovereign nation, grounded in values, ethics and its own moral identity,” he said.
DASA 2026, which runs for two days from yesterday, brings together thinkers, scholars, writers and cultural practitioners to elevate literary and cultural discourse as the foundation for building a modern city with a strong sense of identity, befitting Selangor’s status.
