TEMPLE devotees at the Sri Muniswarar Temple on the mainland will soon have parking lots designated for them by the end of this year.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the new car park, which can accommodate 450 cars, is a much-needed facility for devotees and tourists, considering the popularity of the temple.
“The Sri Muniswarar Temple is widely known among the people due to its rich history and humble beginnings in the 1870s.
“This latest initiative signifies the positive development by the temple and its committee members over the years.
“I understand that the committee members are also heavily involved in social works and assisting the needy in our community especially helping in educational aid for students from B40 families.
“It is hoped that they will continue the good work,” Chow said in his speech during the temple car park groundbreaking ceremony at the Sri Muniswarar Temple in Perai on July 11.
The construction of the new car park on a five-acre land is expected to cost the temple RM700,000.
Meanwhile, temple president N. Gobalakrishnan said the car park would be free for all to use.
“This is purely done for the convenience of our devotees, and of course to benefit visitors from near and far,” he said.
On another matter, Chow commended the temple for being an active contributor to the well-being of the people.
“I was told that the temple had recently donated revision books, past year examination papers and other relevant materials to 28 Tamil primary schools in the state.
“It is really good to note that the temple possesses a similar trait as the state government, which is prioritising the delivery of quality education to our children.
“Since 2019, the state has increased its yearly allocation from RM1.75 million to RM2 million to all the 28 primary Tamil schools (SJKT).
“As for kindergartens, we have increased our allocation from RM100,000 to RM150,000, Under the Tamil schools special allocation, the allocation has risen from RM100,000 to RM150,000 and from RM60,000 to RM90,000 for Punjabi schools,” Chow added.
Among others present during the ceremony were Deputy Chief Minister II Prof Dr P. Ramasamy and Bagan Dalam assemblyman Satees Muniandy.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Law Suun Ting
Video by Alissala Thian