The Jakel-Temple Dispute: What’s Really Happening?

The relocation of the Dewi Sri Pathra Kaliamman temple has sparked heated debates about urban development, religious rights, and the preservation of heritage sites in Kuala Lumpur. The controversy centers on a Hindu temple located near Jalan Masjid India, which is now facing relocation after plans to build a mosque on the same land were announced.

The History Behind the Temple

The Dewi Sri Pathra Kaliamman temple, a modest yet significant place of worship, is located on land owned by Jakel Trading Sdn Bhd. Although situated near Jalan Masjid India, the temple’s official address is Jalan Bunus 6. According to Batu MP P. Prabakaran, the temple was originally built in 1893 and later moved to Jalan Bunus 6 in 2008. However, some reports suggest it was merely shifted by a meter to accommodate road expansion.

Land Ownership and Legal Disputes

The land was purchased by Jakel in 2012, following a failed attempt by the temple committee to convert the land into a non-Muslim place of worship. Jakel claims they were informed by DBKL that the temple’s presence was temporary and that the land sale agreement confirmed this. Despite this, discussions between Jakel and the temple committee have stretched on for over a decade.

Relocation and Rising Tensions

Jakel was granted permission in 2021 to build a mosque but delayed the project to allow time for the temple’s relocation process. Jakel has also offered to cover relocation costs. However, critics, including UMNO Youth Chief Dr. Akmal Saleh, claim the temple illegally occupies private land, while others argue its prior renovations received official approval, reinforcing its legal status.

Calls for Coexistence

Certain parties, including legal group Lawyers for Liberty, have suggested an alternative solution — building the mosque on an adjacent government-owned lot. Temple representatives have expressed willingness to accept this, embracing the idea of promoting religious harmony. However, Jakel has stated that the land is not spacious enough to accommodate two places of worship.

Prime Minister’s Intervention

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stepped in, urging all parties to resolve the matter amicably. With mounting public pressure and the scheduled groundbreaking ceremony set for 27 March, all eyes are on the authorities to find a peaceful resolution that respects cultural and religious sensitivities.

Source : TRP