PUTRAJAYA, February 20 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stressed that all religious activities and the construction of houses of worship must comply with existing laws and regulations, emphasising that no one is above the law.
Speaking at an assembly with staff of the Home Ministry and the Ihya’ Ramadan programme yesterday, Anwar said the government has never restricted religious practices, including Islamic outreach or dakwah, as long as they are conducted in accordance with the Federal Constitution.
“Carry out dakwah, there is no restriction at all. But follow the rules. That is all we ask,” he said, adding that the same principle applies to the building of suraus and Hindu temples. His remarks came amid discussions over enforcement actions by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).
Which recently removed a stall set up by the Multiracial Reverted Muslims group at Jalan Bukit Bintang for allegedly obstructing a pedestrian walkway. DBKL denied acting heavy-handedly, stating that public spaces must remain clear for safety.
And that enforcement was carried out according to existing by-laws. Anwar reiterated that while religious freedom is guaranteed, all parties must adhere to regulations set by the authorities.
