PETALING JAYA, Jan 26 : A US-based Hindu organisation has lauded the Selangor state government’s move to scrap the condominium project slated near the iconic Batu Caves temple.
In a statement yesterday, Universal Society of Hinduism president Rajan Zed (pic) referred to the decision as a “step in the right direction.”
“It will ensure the safety and environmental preservation of the iconic temple, which is highly revered by Hindus,” he said.
Selangor Menteri Besar Abdul Khalid Ibrahim decided to scrap the 26-storey condominium project after getting feedback from several quarters.
“In a meeting on Tuesday, the Rural and Town Planning Department had tabled its detailed study on the proposed condominium project.
“Based on the study, I have decided to instruct the Selayang Municipal Council (MPS) to scrap the project on grounds of public and environmental safety,” Khalid was reported as saying.
Rajan concurred with Khalid’s decision, saying that no development project should come at the cost of the environment and the devotion of a particular community.
“I thank the Selangor state government and the MPS for understanding the wishes of the Hindus,” he said.
In October, the Hindu community and environmentalists protested against the condominium project by Dolomite Industries Sdn Bhd.
Barisan Nasional (BN) leaders later accused the Pakatan Rakyat state government of being insensitive to the Hindus.
However, Selangor exco Ronnie Liu produced documents that showed that MPS gave the approval for the project back in 2007, when the state was under BN control.
-FREE MALAYSIA TODAY
