Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of National Unity has emphasised that matters relating to the management of places of worship and affairs of non-Muslim religions in the states fall under the jurisdiction of the state governments. National Unity Minister Datuk Seri Aaron Ago Dagang stated that state governments hold authority over religious affairs and land matters, as outlined in the Ninth Schedule of the Federal Constitution (State List).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Aaron Ago Dagang highlighted that any issues involving land use or the management of places of worship should be addressed in line with state laws, and through dialogue and community cooperation. He made these remarks during the Ministers' Question Time session in the Dewan Rakyat, in response to Ganabatirau Veraman (PH-Klang) who inquired about proposals for a mechanism or national body to oversee non-Muslim religious affairs and places of worship, following reports of temples built without permission on private land.

Aaron reiterated that the government guarantees religious freedom while upholding the rule of law, including land management and development under the relevant authorities. Although land matters are under state jurisdiction, the ministry acts as a facilitator to ensure religious issues are handled fairly and in alignment with the Federal Constitution and Rukun Negara.

He also mentioned that the ministry has established several committees, such as the National Unity Advisory Council (MPPN), the Interfaith Harmony Committee (HARMONI), and the Unity Issues Management Committee (JPIC), to support this effort. Special committees have been set up by all state governments to oversee non-Muslim religious affairs, including Sarawak's Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), Penang's Non-Muslim Places of Worship Coordination Committee, and Selangor's Special Religious Committee for Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs, among others.

At the community level, Aaron noted that 531 pro bono mediators operate across nine Community Mediation Centres to resolve conflicts without resorting to court litigation. Addressing the issue of religious extremism, he warned against the use of religion to spread hatred, incite division, or stir racial and religious tension. The ministry supports the police and the Attorney General's Chambers in identifying and prosecuting offenders under the Sedition Act, the Penal Code, and the Communications and Multimedia Act.

Aaron concluded by advising the public to refrain from using religion as a tool for conflict and to avoid spreading unverified information.