KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stressed that the government will take action against any house of worship found to be violating the law, regardless of religion, stressing that the rule of law must be upheld fairly and consistently.
Anwar said religious harmony in Malaysia can only be preserved when laws and regulations are respected by all, adding that enforcement should not be selectively applied or influenced by sentiment.
“Any house of worship that breaches the law must be dealt with according to legal procedures. This is not about religion, but about governance and the rule of law,” he said.
The prime minister emphasized that Malaysia remains committed to protecting freedom of religion, as guaranteed under the Federal Constitution, but noted that such freedoms must operate within existing legal and regulatory frameworks, including land use, planning approvals, and local authority regulations.
Anwar also cautioned against exploiting religious issues for political gain, warning that such actions could undermine social cohesion in the country’s multiracial and multireligious society.
“We must not allow irresponsible parties to inflame emotions or create division. The government’s duty is to ensure fairness, justice, and harmony for all Malaysians,” he added.
The statement comes amid heightened public debate over the status and legality of certain religious premises, with calls from various quarters for clearer enforcement guidelines and consistent decision-making by authorities.
Anwar reaffirmed that his administration would continue engaging religious leaders and communities to promote mutual respect, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence, while ensuring that laws are enforced without fear or favour.
