SHAH ALAM, March 19 — The Selangor State Forestry Department (JPNS) held an engagement session with the management of nine temples to discuss the placement of non-Muslim places of worship within Permanent Forest Reserve areas in the state.
The session, involving areas in Hutan Selangor Tengah and Hulu Selangor, was conducted as a proactive measure to address the construction of unauthorised structures within forest reserves.
JPNS director Azhar Ahmad said the discussion, which also involved heads of departments and related agencies, aimed to find solutions in a prudent manner while adhering to legal provisions.
“Following the prime minister’s statement on the construction of places of worship without approval, as well as the full support of the Sultan of Selangor, we called in nine temple management representatives for this engagement session,” he said when met during Media Selangor's Turun Padang programme.
Azhar said the session, held at the Peninsular Malaysia Forestry Training Institute in Kepong, proceeded smoothly without any provocation.
He added that the department also reviewed feedback and information presented by temple representatives to be brought to the state level.
“Every view and information shared, including claims on the historical existence of these places of worship, will be referred to the Selangor Special Committee for Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Sikh and Taoist Affairs (LIMAS) for appropriate action."
He said JPNS remains committed to addressing the issue of unauthorised places of worship in forest reserves to ensure the sustainability of forest resources.
The public has also been reminded not to issue statements that could undermine social harmony and unity.
Previously, Media Selangor, through its Turun Padang programme, also visited several forest reserve locations linked to the issue.
During a visit to the Ulu Gombak Forest Reserve, the department detected ritual activities after two mature timber trees were marked with red, black and white paint.
On February 18, JPNS also carried out ‘Ops Risi’ at the Kapar Tambahan Forest Reserve to curb encroachment and the construction of unauthorised structures.
The integrated operation involved several enforcement agencies to ensure smooth implementation and prevent any untoward incidents.
JPNS stressed that enforcement efforts will continue to preserve forest sustainability, curb encroachment, and ensure all development complies with the law.
