Pkr Division Slams Sale Of Meat In Hindu Temple Under State Programme

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The Tebrau PKR division has condemned the sale of chicken, mutton, fish, and other meat products within the compound of a Hindu temple in Desa Cemerlang, Ulu Tiram, during the Johor state government’s “Jualan Kasih Johor” programme.
Division chief Prakash Maniam said that allowing the sale of meat and fish at the Sri Maha Muniswarar Aalayam Devasthanam temple has caused deep concern and anger among the Hindu community.
“Although the initiative may have been launched with good intentions to support the local community, the lack of proper implementation guidelines represents a serious lapse in judgment.
“Permitting the sale of items deemed inappropriate in Hindu religious practice – particularly meat and fish – within or around a temple area clearly violates both religious norms and public trust,” he told Malaysiakini.
ADSPrakash, who is also Johor PKR strategic director, urged temple committees, organisers, and relevant authorities to take precautions, hold consultations, and observe cultural and religious sensitivities when planning public programmes, especially those involving houses of worship.
“Mutual respect, understanding, and responsibility are essential to maintaining harmony in our multiracial and multi-religious society.
“We urge all parties to remain calm, prioritise dialogue, and practise leadership that values inclusivity and mutual understanding to prevent similar incidents in the future,” he said.
Tebrau PKR division chief Prakash ManiamEarlier, a video went viral showing the “Jualan Kasih Johor” event held on Oct 12 in the temple compound, where meat products and fish were being sold.
Many netizens, particularly Hindus, criticised the sale on temple grounds as disrespectful and insensitive.
Malaysiakini has reached out to Johor state executive councillor K Raven Kumar for comment.
Temple management apologises
The temple management, which claimed it was unaware of the programme, has issued an apology.
“The programme was held without the knowledge or approval of the temple management, during which various items including fish, chicken, mutton, and other meat products were sold within the temple premises.
“The temple management wishes to emphasise that such sales activities should not be held within any house of worship, as it has caused misunderstanding and dissatisfaction among devotees,” said temple chairperson Sundaram Selvanathan.
Expressing regret, he acknowledged the lack of oversight and vowed that such an incident would not recur.
He added that the temple would conduct special religious and purification ceremonies (special pooja) to atone for the mistake and restore the sanctity of the temple grounds. - Mkini

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