Macma To Build First Mosque With Chinese Architecture

Kuala Lumpur - The Federal Territories Islamic Council has pledged RM1 million for the construction of Malaysia`s first Chinese architectural mosque.

Minister in the Prime Minister`s Department Datuk Seri Dr Zahid Hamidi today told reporters that the government had approved a proposal made by the Malaysian Chinese Muslim Association (Macma).

"The mosque with Chinese architecture was approved and Macma`s initiative welcomed. Apart from the RM1 million, we will contribute a "dollar for dollar" for the sum collected by Macma.

"The mosque to be build in Selayang over an area of nine hectares would accommodate 1,000 and cost about RM15 million," said Zahid after launching a Chinese New Year Celebration organised by Muslim NGOs at a mosque here today.

Zahid said Macma would also use the mosque as a tourist destination, religious centre and religious studies.

According to Zahid, the celebration which was held within the confines of Al-Mukhsinin Mosque in Taman Desa, was the first of its kind in the country and Macma should be lauded for its efforts to bring different ethnicities and religions together.

"This should also be a role played by mosques. We should not shut the door for non muslims. If we want to celebrate Deepavali or any other festival in a mosque, it should be welcomed as long as it is not for religious purposes," said Zahid.

Zahid also reminded politicians to keep politics within the confines of the Parliament and the State Assembly and to build camaraderie among each other outside the halls of power.

"Although Seputeh MP Teresa Kok was not scheduled to speak today, I asked the chairman of the celebration to invite her and give a speech. Our difference in politics is in the Parliament and State Assembly, here we are friends," he said.

During his speech, Zahid also enlightened the crowd by teasing Teresa, who is still single, to get married to a Malay man, referring to history whereby Admiral Cheng Ho of China brought Princess Hang Li Po to marry the Sultan of Melaka.

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