Perlis Youth wing criticizes MP for politicizing temple demolition

The Perlis Youth wing of Angkatan Muda Keadilan (AMK Perlis) has criticized Jelutong Member of Parliament RSN Rayer for politicizing the demolition of the Veeramakaliamman Temple in Bukit Lagi. AMK Perlis chief Azzin Izzad Bahanudin urged that legal enforcement issues should not be dragged into political, ethnic, or religious polemics that create societal tension. He emphasized that the country's laws must be respected, aligning with the views of Perlis Mufti Datuk Dr. Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin. "Religious freedom guaranteed by the Federal Constitution does not mean that regulations concerning land ownership and construction can be disregarded," Azzin stated. He added that if a structure is built without permission or valid ownership, and due process has been followed, the enforcement actions must be respected. Rayer had previously urged Barisan Nasional (BN) to reconsider its cooperation with Perikatan Nasional (PN) following the Perlis state government's action to demolish the temple. Rayer, who also chairs the Penang Hindu Endowments Board, claimed the demolition raised questions about PN's ability to respect diversity if given federal governance. He argued that the Federal Constitution protects the right of citizens to practice religions other than Islam, a principle that all state governments, including PN's administration in Perlis, should uphold. AMK Perlis, however, maintains its defense of the rights of the Hindu community and other religious followers to practice their faiths. "Any enforcement involving places of worship must also be carried out with prudence and sensitivity. Do not politicize religion, respect the law, religious rights, and preserve harmony," Azzin concluded.

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Religious freedom guaranteed by the Federal Constitution does not mean that regulations concerning land ownership and construction can be disregarded.