Rally against ‘illegal’ temples still on, says controversial preacher

Rally against ‘illegal’ temples still on, says controversial preacher

PETALING JAYA: Controversial independent preacher Zamri Vinoth has insisted that a planned rally against so-called “illegal” temples will proceed, despite the government’s call for it to be called off.

In a Facebook post, Zamri urged supporters to attend the protest, which is scheduled for 8pm on Sunday (Feb 8) in front of Sogo Kuala Lumpur.

“Don’t be fooled by their propaganda and tactics. We will fight intruders,” he said, confirming the rally remains on schedule.

He previously stated that the gathering would be a peaceful assembly aimed at upholding the rule of law and opposing the crime of trespass.

Zamri claimed the assembly is being held in accordance with legal provisions and has no connection to any specific race or religion.

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His statement followed an announcement by the Home Ministry that police would meet organisers to persuade them to cancel the protest.

The ministry cited security concerns ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Malaysia, which begins on Sunday (Feb 8).

“We urge members of the public not to hold or participate in any public gathering throughout the period of the visit,” the ministry stated.

The rally, organised by a coalition of approximately 141 non-governmental organisations, aims to pressure authorities to act against unauthorised houses of worship.

Several Indian community leaders have called for restraint, while police reports have been lodged to prevent the assembly from moving forward.

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Government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim would not allow any party to jeopardise national security during the high-profile diplomatic visit.

Zamri has denied any link between the protest and the visit of the Indian Prime Minister, describing the timing as purely coincidental.

The issue of temple land status remains a sensitive topic in Malaysia, often involving historic sites built by estate workers during the British colonial era.

Former Malaysia Hindu Sangam president A. Vaithilingam previously explained that many old temples were established long ago in areas that have since been transformed by urban development.