KUALA LUMPUR – The Selangor government has sought to address what it described as misconceptions surrounding its proposed review and optimisation of the state’s planning guidelines for non-Islamic places of worship.
State Human Resources and Poverty Eradication Committee chairman V. Pappraidu said one of the key misunderstandings was the claim that non-Islamic places of worship would no longer be allowed direct access from major roads under the revised guidelines, which propose the use of service roads, Bernama reported.
He explained that the requirement is intended to improve traffic management and public safety by providing safer access and parking facilities without disrupting traffic on major routes.
“The requirement for service roads is based solely on traffic management and public safety considerations. Religious premises located along major roads often attract large crowds during festivals and special occasions, which may result in traffic congestion and safety risks,” he said in a statement today.
Pappraidu also rejected allegations that shrines located at construction sites would be subject to demolition under the proposed guidelines.
He said the provision applies only to temporary shrines erected for worship during the construction phase of a permanent temple or place of worship.
“Once the permanent temple or place of worship is completed, these temporary structures are expected to be relocated accordingly. The policy does not involve the arbitrary demolition of religious shrines,” he said.
On concerns relating to restrictions on building heights and land allocation, Pappraidu said the state government remains open to reviewing and refining the current standards, which provide for land areas of between 0.10 and 0.20 hectares and building heights of up to 72 feet (21.9 metres).
Pappraidu, who is also co-chairman of the Special Committee on Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Sikh and Taoist Affairs (Limas), said the state government remains committed to protecting religious freedom and safeguarding the interests of all faith communities while ensuring planning policies support safety, harmony and sustainable development.
“We urge the public not to be misled by inaccurate information and to refer only to official statements and verified sources regarding this matter. Constructive engagement and dialogue will continue to guide the state government’s efforts in refining these guidelines for the benefit of all Selangorians,” he said.
He added that the review and enhancement of the guidelines had been approved by the State Executive Council to ensure planning regulations remain practical, inclusive and responsive to the needs of Selangor’s diverse population.
Pappraidu also highlighted the state’s record in supporting non-Muslim religious communities, noting that 481 plots of land have been approved and issued for non-Muslim places of worship since 2008.
“Under the current administration alone, 57 plots have been approved, while another 40 applications are currently being processed. By the end of the year, the total is expected to surpass 500 approved sites,” he said. – June 6, 2026