KUALA LUMPUR April 23, 2026 – Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh has chaired the inaugural 2026 meeting of the Non-Islamic Places of Worship (RIBI) Committee for the Federal Territories, marking a significant step towards resolving long-standing issues concerning places of worship located on government-owned land.
In a statement issued following the meeting held on Tuesday, Yeoh said the MADANI Government is committed to a structured, prudent and fair approach in handling these matters, while giving due consideration to the needs of the communities involved and the prevailing legal frameworks.
“The terms of reference for this meeting have been enhanced with the involvement of Kuala Lumpur Parliamentarians and the interfaith body – the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) – to strengthen the discussion and resolution process,” she said.
To facilitate a more targeted resolution, the Federal Territories Department (JWP) has completed a comprehensive mapping of unauthorised RIBI according to parliamentary constituencies. To date, a total of 163 such RIBI have been identified on government land.
The meeting also reached a consensus to establish 11 Sub-Committees, each chaired by the respective Parliamentarian in their areas. These sub-committees will lead discussions with relevant stakeholders, including the MCCBCHST.
In parallel, the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) is currently refining national guidelines on the management of non-Islamic places of worship to ensure a more consistent and orderly approach across the country.
Effective immediately, no new construction or structural additions will be permitted on government land without proper approval. Any violations will be subject to enforcement action by the local authorities in accordance with existing regulations.
“All actions will be carried out prudently and respectfully, taking into account local community sensitivities,” Yeoh stressed.
She expressed confidence that this inclusive and measured approach will lead to effective resolutions while preserving harmony in Malaysia’s multicultural society.
“The MADANI Government believes this inclusive and prudent approach will ensure that every issue is resolved well while maintaining harmony in the multicultural society of the Federal Territories,” she added.
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