KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasised that religious activities and preaching are fully allowed in Malaysia, but must be conducted within the confines of the law.
Speaking at the Home Ministry’s monthly assembly and Ihya Ramadan event in Putrajaya today, Anwar said, “Religious outreach should not be restricted in any way. But it must follow the rules; that is all we ask. I was also involved in religious outreach activities in the past. But if people want to preach in a way that disrupts traffic… go ahead, preaching is not restricted at all, but follow the regulations. That’s all we ask.”
The remarks follow the removal of a ‘Street Dakwah’ stall along Jalan Bukit Bintang, operated by Multiracial Reverted Muslims (MRM), by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) for obstructing a pedestrian walkway. The council said public paths must remain clear for safety and uninterrupted access, though PAS Youth criticised the move as an unjustified shutdown.
Anwar said the same rules apply to the construction of houses of worship across all faiths. “Just as with Hindu temples, people may pray as much as they wish and build as many temples as they want, but they must follow the regulations. You cannot simply put up a temple or shrine anywhere without regard for the rules.”
He also reminded that Muslims are not exempt. Referring to a case in Perak, he said a surau was demolished after being built without proper approval.
“Some have said a surau can be built anywhere, but that is not correct. I know from our history, and Datuk Seri Shamsul Nasarah is aware, that a surau in Perak was once demolished for breaching the regulations. So I hope these matters can be resolved properly.”
The Prime Minister stressed that the government’s position applies to all religions. Action will only be taken against structures that violate legal procedures, and disputes should be resolved through lawful channels. Local authorities are empowered to remove unapproved houses of worship.
Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah had earlier called for all religious buildings to obtain proper approval. The Selangor Royal Office said unregulated houses of worship have long caused concern among communities and disrupted harmony, adding that lawful and orderly construction, particularly for Hindu temples, ensures development is planned, sustainable, and aligned with urban regulations. — February 19, 2026— February 19, 2026