PUTRAJAYA: The government has barred the construction and operation of all houses of worship built without official approval, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Anwar said local councils now have the prerogative to remove any illegal houses of worship. Anwar said he expected his remarks to spark controversy but stressed that Malaysia is a country governed by the rule of law. Anwar said that even in India and China, the authorities do not allow illegal houses of worship or temples to be built at unapproved locations. On Sunday (Feb 8), two men were detained following a rally against the construction of illegal temples.

Source: The Star February 09, 2026 04:24 UTC