The Selangor government can snatch back land from religious groups if they fail to build temples and churches fast enough. State officials warned that approved plots must be developed within strict time limits or face seizure. Local Government and Tourism Committee chairman Datuk Ng Suee Lim told lawmakers that vacant land would go to other groups waiting for approval. The state runs a tough system that punishes religious communities for delays in construction projects. Government officials will redistribute seized plots to organizations that can actually build houses of worship.
The Special Committee on Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Sikh and Taoist groups has handed out 400 land approvals since 2008. Religious leaders received these plots specifically for building temples, churches and other worship centers across Selangor. Many communities have successfully constructed their buildings and opened them to followers. However, some groups have struggled to raise money or get construction permits within the required timeframe. State lawmakers heard about the policy during recent assembly discussions about religious land allocation.
Lwi Kian Keong from Sungai Pelek raised questions about the land approval system during the legislative session. The politician wanted to know how the state handles groups that receive land but fail to develop it properly. Ng Suee Lim explained that the government maintains strict oversight of all approved religious sites. Officials regularly check on construction progress and can revoke approvals for inactive projects. The policy aims to prevent land speculation and ensure religious communities actually use their allocated plots.
The Special Committee on Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Sikh and Taoist groups has handed out 400 land approvals since 2008. Religious leaders received these plots specifically for building temples, churches and other worship centers across Selangor. Many communities have successfully constructed their buildings and opened them to followers. However, some groups have struggled to raise money or get construction permits within the required timeframe. State lawmakers heard about the policy during recent assembly discussions about religious land allocation.
Lwi Kian Keong from Sungai Pelek raised questions about the land approval system during the legislative session. The politician wanted to know how the state handles groups that receive land but fail to develop it properly. Ng Suee Lim explained that the government maintains strict oversight of all approved religious sites. Officials regularly check on construction progress and can revoke approvals for inactive projects. The policy aims to prevent land speculation and ensure religious communities actually use their allocated plots.
