MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan today handed over a letter to the prime minister pertaining to the use of the word ‘kuil haram’ when referring to Hindu places of worship.
In the letter, Saravanan appealed to the prime minister to instruct all government agencies and departments to stop using the term 'kuil haram' when referring to Hindu temples.
He explained that certain temples in the country were built many years ago during the British and Japanese times before the enactment of the National Land Code in 1965.
"Back then, workers erected these temples near their workplaces.
"The government should not overlook the fact that these temples did get approval from the relevant authorities at that time before they were built," he said.
Labelling these temples as 'kuil haram' is insensitive to the Hindus, he stressed.
"In this context, I appeal to the Prime Minister to instruct all government agencies and departments to stop using the term 'kuil haram' when referring to these places of worship," added the Tapah MP.
He also enclosed a copy of a letter from Hospital Taiping where it also used the term ‘kuil haram’ when responding to a certain complaint.
“Labelling such places of worship as ‘haram’ is totally insensitive and disregards their strong historical and cultural significance.
“We trust the Madani government will take the necessary action to ensure the rights and sensitivities of all religions in the country are safeguarded,” added Saravanan. – April 21, 2025
