By R.S.N MURALI | Jan 13, 2010
Hindus to move temple
KEMAMAN: Plans are afoot to relocate the century-old Sri Maha Mariamman temple built by early Indians settlers in Kemasik, a suburb in Kerteh, 25km from here.
The temple, which is in danger of vandalism and encroachment by wild animals, previously catered to the needs of about 100 Hindu families.
Kemasik MIC chief L. Selva Mohan said the temple was the first Hindu shrine in Terengganu, and could be considered a heritage site.
“It was built by Indians from then Burma in the 1900s. The shrine was known as Rangoon Amman Temple, adopting the old name of Myanmar’s capital,” he told The Star.
However, he said the temple has been neglected because it is situated in the hinterland making it difficult for the small Hindu community to oversee its maintenance.
Due to the development of Kerteh, Hindus in the area have migrated to other states and now only a few people go to the temple.
Furthermore, the road to the temple is often submerged during a heavy downpour.
Selva said he had discussed the matter with Kemasik assemblyman Rosli Othman who pledged to look into the needs of the Hindu community.
“We have expressed our intention to relocate the temple to a site that is accessible to the Hindu congregation here,” he said.
Related story:
|