THE Dewi Sri Meenatchi Amman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Simpang Ampat at 130 years, is in need of funds to purchase a plot of land within the temple’s vicinity where a hall is located.
Spanning a total of 4,317sq ft in land size, it is learned that RM300,000 is required to acquire the land.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow commended the temple committee’s interest in acquiring the land for a good purpose, which at the end of the day, will benefit the local devotees and future events in the temple.
It is learned that the land is owned by GUH Properties Sdn Bhd.
“I was made to understand that around 6,000 devotees from all walks of life throng this temple annually to participate in its special prayers, which include various other activities happening at the same time.
“Therefore, there is a pressing need for the temple to ensure this land acquisition interest becomes a reality, which will allow the temple to legally operate the temple on its own will.
“As for the state government, and under my watch as the chief minister, I will ensure all houses of worship are prioritised and given attention as and when there is a need for assistance in any given area.
“The Penang government is mulling over the establishment of an e-RIBI portal for future applications for various projects to be done online.
“This is part of our initiative of promoting digitalisation, even among houses of worship in Penang,” Chow said in his speech after attending the Tamil New Year celebrations at the temple in Simpang Ampat today.
State Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu received praise from Chow for his commitment to speed up the fundraising initiative, and also to discuss with the property developer to reduce the selling price of the land to the temple.
Also, during the event, Chow announced that the state government pledged to contribute RM50,000 to the temple. This funding will be used to upgrade and enhance the temple facilities, creating a conducive and comfortable environment for the devotees once the land has been acquired in the future.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis