23rd March 2020
To All Temple Chairman
REF: TEMPLES PROHIBITED FROM CONDUCTING SPECIAL PRAYERS DURING THE MOVEMENT CONTROL ORDER (MC0)
Our Government have proclaimed the MCO from 18 – 31 March 2020 to curb the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. Malaysia Hindu Sangam have instructed clearly that all temples must be closed for prayers by devotees during the MCO period. Only daily prayer (Nitya poojas) can be conducted by priest (Gurukal) alone in the temples.
According to current statistics by Ministry of Health (as of 23 March 2020), there are 1518 cases and 14 deaths in our country due to COVID-19. Situation is escalating day by day. Yet Malaysia Hindu Sangam received several complaints that some temples are still conducting special prayers which are attended by devotees. These temples obviously have acted against the MCO; against the restriction of the Government.
In this time of emergency, all quarters including temples have to act more responsibly and be more vigilant to ensure that we co-operate with the authorities to curb the spread of COVID-19 virus. If all temples are directed to be close, then all temples must be closed, there is no exceptions to any temples for that matter.
Malaysia Hindu Sangam is further alerting all temples that actions will be taken by the authorities against the temple and the temple management committee who do not follow the MCO. Our irresponsible action will only result in more casualties. Together we can overcome this episode. Thank you for all your co-operation.
Om Namasivaaya. Inbame Soolgha Ellorum Vaalga
Yours in service,
Sri Kasi Datuk RS Mohan Shan PMW.,JMW.,AMK.,BKM.,PJK
President,
Malaysia Hindu Sangam
